Riyan Parag and MS Dhoni hold a strange connection which came to the fore in the 2019 IPL. The young Riyan Parag was only three when he first met MS Dhoni. Incidentally, MS Dhoni had stumped his father Parag Das in a domestic match some 19 years ago. Now, out-of-favour India batsman Robin Uthappa has drawn parallels between MS Dhoni and Riyan Parag.
Former chief selector MSK Prasad had picked up wicket-keeper batsman Rishabh Pant to fill in the big boots of MS Dhoni. However, his miscued shot and questionable glovework, has not favoured him much. KL Rahul, meanwhile, grabbed his opportunity with both hands and looks to be solving India’s wicket-keeping conundrum.
Riyan Parag could be India’s answer to the next MS Dhoni: Robin Uthappa
Robin Uthappa has suggested that Riyan Parag could well be the answer to India’s next MS Dhoni. Parag was a delight to watch in the IPL 2019 while playing for Rajasthan Royals. He is capable of playing quick-fire knocks. He scored 160 runs from seven matches at an average of 32 and was involved in important cameos.
“Currently, the young player which excites me out of my socks in Riyan Parag. I am extremely excited and he is the one to watch out for. I think he is someone who is looked after well and dealt well and nurtured well and will represent India for a very long time. He could be India’s answer to the next MS Dhoni,” the 34-year-old told Cricfit.
However, Parag is just 18 and will need some grooming to climb up the ladder and represent the national team. He has featured in 13 first-class matches and scored at an average over 31.