“Brave Call By Young RR Captain Riyan Parag…It Takes Guts”: Kaif, Bhajji Heap Praise on Riyan

Harbhajan Singh applauded Riyan Parag’s decision-making, calling it a "bold and gutsy move" that ultimately secured Rajasthan’s victory

Riyan Parag, leading Rajasthan Royals (RR) in his home state, Assam scripted a thrilling victory against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in their IPL 2025 clash at the Barsapara Stadium, Guwahati, on Sunday.

The young skipper’s brave tactical decisions in the final overs earned him praise from fans and cricketing legends alike, securing RR’s first win of the season.

Parag’s decision to entrust the crucial 19th and 20th overs to Tushar Deshpande and Sandeep Sharma over star pacer Jofra Archer proved pivotal in Rajasthan’s 6-run victory.

Former cricketers Mohammad Kaif and Harbhajan Singh in a video shared on X, lauded Parag’s leadership especially his brave call to hand the 19th and 20th overs to Tushar Deshpande and Sandeep Sharma instead of relying on seasoned pacer Jofra Archer.

“Brave call by young RR captain Riyan Parag. It takes guts to give Tushar Deshpande and Sandeep Sharma 19th and 20th overs ahead of international star Jofra Archer in a tight game. And this when Dhoni is at crease,” said Kaif.

With CSK requiring 39 runs off the last two overs, Parag’s gamble paid off. Deshpande conceded 19 runs in the penultimate over, setting up a tense finish where Sandeep Sharma successfully defended 20 runs against Dhoni and Ravindra Jadeja.

Harbhajan Singh applauded Parag’s decision-making, calling it a “bold and gutsy move” that ultimately secured Rajasthan’s victory.

Singh also highlighted a key moment in the match, Parag’s spectacular catch to dismiss Shivam Dube, which he termed a turning point.

“That catch came at a crucial moment because Dube is a batter who can turn the game with his six-hitting ability. Parag’s sharp fielding helped put RR in the driver’s seat,” he said.

Kaif further pointed out how Sandeep Sharma’s previous success against Dhoni played a role in Parag’s decision-making.

“It’s not the first time Sandeep has kept Dhoni quiet in the death overs. He uses clever slower bouncers and yorkers to deny him big hits. This is why he was retained by RR,” Kaif said.

Kaif also noted that Sandeep had a history of restricting Dhoni, using clever variations like slower bouncers and yorkers.

“Many might question leaving out a big name like Archer in the death overs, but Parag backed his instincts, and it worked. If it had gone wrong, he would have faced a storm of criticism. But this shows his confidence and ability to handle pressure,” Harbhajan Singh added.

Watch the video here:

Brave call by young RR captain Riyan Parag. It takes guts to give Tushar Deshpande and Sandeep Sharma 19th and 20th overs ahead of international star Jofra Archer in a tight game. And this when Dhoni is at crease.🔥 pic.twitter.com/gFo6mne1pm

— Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) March 30, 2025

Parag, who made his captaincy debut on March 23 against Sunrisers Hyderabad in Hyderabad and against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on March 26 in Guwahati, faced criticism after RR’s loss in both matches.

However, he silenced doubters with this comeback win, proving his leadership skills and earning admiration from cricketing greats.

With RR securing their first win of the season in front of Parag’s home crowd in Guwahati, the young skipper has not only redeemed himself but also emerged as a leader to watch out for in IPL 2025.

Also Read: Why Did BCCI Fine Riyan Parag Rs 12 Lakh After RR’s First Win in IPL 2025 in Guwahati?

Also Read: IPL 2025: Did Riyan Parag Offer Rs 10,000 for the Fan’s Foot-Touching Moment During RR vs KKR Match in Guwahati?

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