'I didn’t realise he was this young' - Shane Watson applauds Riyan Parag's maturity and composure in IPL 2024

Riyan Parag who was once criticised for his forgetful outings has been drawing accolades from all corners due to his exceptional performances in the ongoing Indian Premier League 2024. Parag drew a bucket load of criticism after he finished his IPL 2023 for Rajasthan Royals with 78 runs in seven games. As of now, former Australia cricketer Shane Watson has also praised the youngster for his onslaught in IPL 2024.

Before the start of the IPL 2024, the 22-year-old had not had a single fifty to his name after representing the Rajasthan franchise for more than four years. The franchise was out and out trolled for sticking with the batter despite his dismal showings. But he came up with a scintillating unbeaten 83 against Delhi Capitals and has already amassed 181 runs in three games at a strike rate of 160.18.

“I didn’t realise he was this young. He’s only 22. For someone to be in control of his skills against the best bowlers in the world, backed by his composure, game sense, awareness about timing, the right bowler to have a go at, and where to hit is impressive,” Watson said on JioCinema.

Also Read: In just 3 innings, Riyan has turned his critics into admirers: Wasim Jaffer

“I just love him talking about how he’s simplified everything. As a batter, you’ve got intent and are watching the ball, ready to react, and he’s doing that with so much time. Now, he’s on top of the pile when it comes to the Orange Cap,” he added.

I’ve simplified everything instead of trying to do a lot of things: Parag

Parag scored an unbeaten 54 as Rajasthan Royals thwarted Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium on Monday. His ability to start cautiously and accelerate post-setting his eyes has been a standout factor in his gameplay. The 22-year-old stressed that there has been a significant change in his gameplay compared to his prior approach but simplifying things has worked for him.

“Actually, I’ve simplified everything instead of trying to do a lot of things. Earlier when I wasn’t getting runs I would try a lot of different things. This year, it’s just seeing the ball and hitting the ball,” Parag said while speaking to broadcasters.