‘Talk about cricket’: Riyan Parag urges commentators to avoid personal remarks

Rajasthan Royals skipper Riyan Parag has called for greater respect towards players and urged commentators and experts to avoid personal remarks during the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season, stressing that analysis should remain focused on on-field performances.

Speaking after Rajasthan Royals’ crucial seven-wicket win over Lucknow Super Giants, which he missed due to a recurring hamstring injury, the RR captain said criticism often crosses the line and fails to acknowledge the preparation and pressure behind the scenes.

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“As far as the IPL is concerned, there are a lot of things happening outside this year. I feel the whole country loves cricket a lot. We, as players, try to give our best whenever we can. We perform according to the expectations of the crowd. So, I feel, we should all love cricket and look at it in the same way.

He added that harsh judgments after poor team performances ignore the effort that goes into each game.

“Players are working very hard. It is very easy to say, if a team gets all out for 75 or 80 runs, that they do not know how to play or have the mindset to play. But before that game, there is a 3‑4 days’ preparation (period) to ensure how we can score 200‑250. But sometimes it doesn’t happen. We are humans too and we make mistakes too.”

Parag, earlier in the spotlight over an on-field vaping controversy during the season, also raised concerns about the tone of external commentary, saying it can unfairly shape public perception of players and performances.

Also See: WATCH: Riyan Parag sparks controversy after alleged vaping caught on camera in IPL clash

“So, I feel, as much as it is happening outside, especially the commentators, their voices are reaching out to the people, I would request them to love cricket and talk about cricket,” Parag told reporters at the end of the game.

He further added that he has learned to block out external noise over the years, saying criticism no longer affects his mindset or performance.

“I have understood that no matter what I do, there will be talks. It shouldn’t affect my game, my form or my mindset because keyboard warriors are outsiders,” he said.

Turning to team matters, Parag praised young teammate Vaibhav Sooryavanshi for his match-winning 93 off 38 balls, calling it his best IPL innings so far.

Also Read: ‘I know I can hit boundaries anytime’: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi dazzles with 38-ball 93 in RR’s epic chase

“I think this was his best innings… it was really fun to see Vaibhav, being 15, but showing such understanding of the game,” he added.

The win keeps Rajasthan Royals alive in the playoff race as the tournament heads into a decisive final stretch.