BCCI shows confidence in Riyan Parag for upcoming series against Sri Lanka

Despite a lackluster performance in the recent series against Zimbabwe, the BCCI selectors have decided to back Riyan Parag for the upcoming white-ball series against Sri Lanka. The young all-rounder has been named in both the T20I and ODI squads, taking the place of Tilak Varma, who is currently injured.

Parag's selection reflects the BCCI's long-term plan to groom him as a key player in India’s white-ball cricket future. The selectors have been impressed with his all-round skills and positive attitude in domestic cricket, and they see great potential in the Assam-born cricketer.

“Parag is highly talented and has improved his attitude towards the game by several notches. He's now looking to stay at the wicket. To add to his value, he can bowl decently and is a terrific fielder to boot. The selectors want to nurture him for the future,” the source close to the development said.

Alongside Parag, the selectors are also focusing on developing Harshit Rana. The pacer had an outstanding performance in the 2024 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), which earned him a spot in India’s ODI squad for the Sri Lanka series. The selectors are impressed by Rana's variations, particularly his yorkers and slower balls, which make him a strong candidate for white-ball cricket.

“He can bowl yorkers, slower balls and employ other variations at the death. That makes him a good option in white-ball cricket,” the source added.

Rana was the joint fourth-leading wicket-taker in IPL 2024, with 19 wickets in 13 matches. He is expected to get game time in the series against Sri Lanka, and if he performs well, he could be in contention for India’s squad for the upcoming Champions Trophy in 2025. However, consistency will be key for Rana’s continued inclusion in the national team.