‘Coming from Assam, it was termed impossible’ – BCCI shares Riyan Parag’s heartwarming speech ahead of ODI debut

Riyan Parag. (Photo Source: SonyLiv)

The third ODI between India and Sri Lanka on Wednesday, August 7, marked the debut of Riyan Parag in the format. Skipper Rohit Sharma announced the Assam all-rounder’s name in the playing XI at the toss at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.

Parag made his international debut during the five-match T20I series against Zimbabwe last month. Now, after sitting on the sidelines for the first couple of ODIs against Sri Lanka, the right-handed batter has been handed his debut in the format. Parag’s idol, Virat Kohli, presented him his maiden ODI cap ahead of the third ODI.

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Minutes after Rohit announced Parag’s inclusion into the side, the BCCI posted a heartwarming video recorded on Tuesday, where the 22-year-old gave a dressing room speech upon being informed that he is going to make his ODI debut.

“Coming from Assam, it was termed impossible, too far-fetched for a kid to come here and play with players like you. Players I have watched when I was growing up, idolised when I was growing up. So, that was the motto when I started. But then, me and my dad made a mission, me, my dad, and my mom that we were gonna make it here and once we do, then we’ll be like, ‘Okay, that’s something we’ve accomplished.’ And it happened in the T20s.

“Now, this was even more emotional for me cause I actually saw people who I watched growing up – Rohit bhai, Virat bhaiya. And then, now actually being here, practicing, going inside, sharing the same hotel, being in the same rooms,” Parag said in the video.

“All of this feels very surreal. I called my mom when I first got this and mom and dad were in the video call with me and that I got the ODI call-up and everyone was crying but then it was just a very emotional experience I had and felt really surreal to be here and be with you guys. Just feels amazing, so thank you so much,” the Rajasthan Royals cricketer added.

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The third and final ODI is very important as Sri Lanka are leading the series 1-0. The Island nation has a chance to register their first bilateral ODI series win against India in 27 years.