'Under-fire' Riyan Parag emerged as the standout player in the recently concluded Deodhar Trophy 2023 Final even though his team East Zone succumbed to a defeat against South Zone in the summit clash. Parag, one of the most trolled cricketers in recent times, ended up scoring 354 runs, laced up with two tons and a fifty, eventually winning 'Player of the series' award. He was also the highest run-scorer in Deodhar Trophy 2023. The 21-year-old Rajasthan Royals batter faced a lot of flak on social media for his lackluster form in IPL 2023. The Assam all-rounder has now minced no words to hit back at trolls.
In an exclusive conversation with The Indian Express, Riyan Parag slammed his trolls and critics, saying that even the simplest of his actions - even if it's chewing gum or taking his collar up - receives harsh criticism.
"People have a problem with me chewing gum. If my collar is up that's a problem. I celebrate after taking a catch that's a problem. They have a problem with me gaming and playing golf in my off time," Parag said.
Parag feels that the reason why some people probably hate him is because he doesn't follow the 'rulebook'.
"I have an idea why people hate me. There is a rulebook about how you should play cricket. The T- shirt should be tucked in, the collar should be down, give respect to everyone, don't sledge anyone, and I am completely the opposite," the Assam all-rounder stated.
"I had a decent Deodhar Trophy, and now people are saying what a talent. Tomorrow I will fail in one game and people are going to talk s**t about me. There is no point giving a thought to those faceless trolls. No one has come down to me and told me their exact problem with me," added Parag.
Parag said harsh criticisms do not affect him.
"I am going to play the way I know; either they can join the wagon or they can oppose it. I am not really concerned about it," he said.