Riyan Parag is ready to make his ODI debut for India in the last match of the three-game series against Sri Lanka on Wednesday, August 7. In a crucial toss, Charith Asalanka won and chose to bat first. India has made two significant changes from the last game: Rishabh Pant and Riyan Parag have replaced KL Rahul and Arshdeep Singh.
Ahead of the game, the BCCI shared a video in which Riyan Parag candidly expressed his emotions upon learning about his ODI debut. The right-handed batter, brimming with excitement and nostalgia, shared:
“Coming from Assam, it seemed impossible for a kid like me to play with players like you (looking at Rohit Sharma), whom I watched and admired growing up. But my parents and I made it our mission to get here, and once we did, we felt like we had achieved something big. I already did it in T20Is.”
Riyan Parag Makes ODI Debut in Series Finale Against Sri Lanka
“Now, this was even more emotional for me because I saw people I grew up watching, like Rohit bhai and Virat bhaiya. Being here with them, practicing, staying in the same hotel, and sharing the same room feels unreal. When I got the ODI call-up, I called my mom, and my parents were on a video call with me. Everyone was crying. It was a very emotional experience for me, and it feels amazing to be here with you all,” he continued.
Riyan Parag made his T20I debut against Zimbabwe in July 2024, marking the beginning of what promises to be a remarkable international career. His inclusion in the ODI squad for this decisive match against Sri Lanka is a testament to his talent and hard work. The cricketing world will be keenly watching as Parag steps onto the field, hoping to make a significant impact in his first ODI appearance.