As cricket fans across the globe continue to marvel at Virat Kohli’s remarkable batting prowess, the Indian captain’s influence transcends generations. For young Assam all-rounder Riyan Parag, Kohli remains the singular cricketer he looks up to, drawing inspiration from the modern-day great’s consistency and approach to the game.
With over 25,000 runs in 500 international matches and an astounding 76 centuries to his name, Kohli’s status as one of cricket’s all-time greats is cemented. His surreal consistency in all formats has led many to consider him the greatest all-format batter in cricket history.
In a recent video shared by the BCCI on Twitter, 21-year-old Riyan Parag expressed his admiration for Kohli, stating, “It’s always been Virat Kohli. I don’t look up to any other batsman although there are many great batsmen in our generation.” Parag revealed that he relates to Kohli on a personal level and has had the opportunity to interact with him, benefiting from the senior player’s valuable insights.
Parag’s impressive form for East Zone in the ongoing Deodhar Trophy, which includes two centuries in three innings, has drawn attention to his skills and potential. The young cricketer emphasized his growth and maturity, acknowledging that he has learned to be more patient in his approach to the game.
Representing Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League (IPL), Parag has displayed versatility by adding left-arm spin bowling to his repertoire. The ambitious player takes pride in being an all-round package, stating, “I pretty much bowl everything, I am even working on left-arm spin as well. There’s no ball I don’t bowl.”
Despite the spotlight, Parag has also faced criticism and trolling from fans on social media for not living up to the early promise shown in the IPL. Nevertheless, the determined youngster remains focused on his game, finding solace in playing golf and indulging in online gaming to unwind and maintain a balanced approach.
As Riyan Parag continues to make strides in his cricketing journey, he aspires to emulate the consistency and dedication displayed by his idol, Virat Kohli. For cricket enthusiasts worldwide, the prospect of witnessing a new generation inspired by Kohli’s legacy is a testament to the Indian captain’s enduring impact on the sport.
