NEW DELHI: In a spectacular display of batting prowess, Riyan Parag unleashed a remarkable unbeaten innings of 84 runs from just 45 balls, single-handedly propelling the Rajasthan Royals to a formidable total of 185 for 5 in their Indian Premier League (IPL) encounter against the Delhi Capitals in Jaipur on Thursday.
Parag's stellar performance saw him smashing veteran South African pacer Anrich Nortje for 25 runs in the final over, including four boundaries, two sixes, and a single. This exceptional innings, which featured seven fours and six sixes, marked Parag's highest T20 score to date.
The young batsman played a crucial role in steadying the Royals' innings after they were asked to bat first. He formed valuable partnerships, contributing 54 runs alongside Ravichandran Ashwin (29) and 52 runs with Dhruv Jurel (20), following a shaky start.
Despite losing early wickets, Royals' captain Sanju Samson showcased glimpses of his destructive form, striking three consecutive boundaries off pacer Mukesh Kumar's bowling. However, his innings was short-lived as he fell victim to Khaleel Ahmed after scoring 15 runs.
Further trouble loomed for the Royals as wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav successfully persuaded Delhi Capitals' captain Rishabh Pant to review a leg-before-wicket decision, leading to the dismissal of Jos Buttler.
Ravichandran Ashwin contributed with a quickfire 29 runs before being caught by Tristan Stubbs near the boundary ropes, while Parag continued to shine, reaching his fifty in style with a flurry of boundaries.
Parag's onslaught continued as he punished the bowlers, including Kuldeep Yadav, and showcased his aggressive intent with a breathtaking display of strokeplay, much to the delight of the home crowd at the Sawai Man Singh Stadium.
(With PTI inputs)
