Sangakkara lauds Sakariya, Parag; considers them as future India prospects

The Indian Premier League’s 2021 season, though suspended for the time being is still keeping Chetan Sakariya amongst the most discussed players. Kumar Sangakkara, his team director from the Rajasthan Royals praised the youngster calling him a revelation of the season. 

"Chetan Sakariya was a revelation," said the former Sri Lanka captain in a webinar organised by the Royals on May 13. 

"He's had a tough year since January so far and our love and prayers are with him. His attitude and ability to build pressure and of course his skill. It's wonderful to have him in the side,” added Sangakkara, pointing out how the Saurashtra player first lost his bother early this year and then his father to Covid-19 just recently. Sakariya took seven wickets in seven games for the Royals and bowled both with the new ball and at the death. 

Talking about other youngsters from the Royals side, Sanga praised the trio of Anuj Rawat, Yashwshvi Jaiswal and Mahipal Lomror. “We have Anuj, Yash, Mahipal, three youngsters who have been with the franchise for a long time and I was very impressed by all three of them,” he said. 

The coach further emphasised that although the Under-19 star Jaiswal did get a lot of opportunities in the middle, Delhi wicket-keeper batsman Rawat could not get to bat, even when he made it to the XI against Sunrisers Hyderabad, which was the last game of the suspended season for the Royals. 

“Mahi worked really hard in the nets to put his hand up for selection. Those three boys were just outstanding for us,” added the former President of the MCC. 

Talking about another exciting prospect for the Royals team, Sangakkara, who himself represented Sri Lanka for a record 404 ODIs, 134 Tests and 56 T20Is felt that Assam’s Riyan Parag has it in him to get selected for Team India. "Riyan Parag is also a very, very special player. He's got a huge amount to contribute not just to Rajasthan Royals, but also Indian cricket in the future. He's a very special talent that needs care, nurturing and development,” the 43-year old said.