“First you have to be patriotic”: Sreesanth hits out at Riyan Parag over T20 World Cup comments (Watch video)

Former India fast bowler S. Sreesanth criticised young batsman Riyan Parag’s comments after India’s victory in the ICC T20 World Cup final on Saturday, June 29. Parag, who was not selected for the World Cup squad, had earlier said that he had no interest in the tournament and would not watch the matches.

Parag’s comments ahead of the tournament

Parag, a standout player for the Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2024 with 573 runs in 16 matches (third highest scorer), expressed his disinterest in the World Cup after the IPL season. When the Bharat Army fan group asked to predict the top four teams, Parag said, “It will be a biased answer (prediction about the top four teams), but to be very honest, I don’t even want to go to the world to look. Cup. I’ll see at the end who wins, and then I’ll be happy. When I play in the World Cup, I will think about the top four and all that.” These comments also drew criticism from fans and cricketers.

Sreesanth’s on-air commentary

Sreesanth, a two-time World Cup winner, criticized Parag for what he called irresponsible and unprofessional behaviour. He emphasized the importance of patriotism and genuine support for the national team, regardless of personal disappointments. Sreesanth emphasized that young cricketers should put their love for country and sport above individual aspirations and urged them to respect and endorse the decisions of the selectors.

During the T20 World Cup final telecast, Sreesanth said, “Some youngsters have also said that they will not watch the World Cup because they have not been selected. I would say that first you have to be patriotic, and then yes, a cricket lover. But those who have selected the team should be supported with all their heart, soul and passion.