Parag, who has faced scrutiny this season despite scoring 258 runs at a strike rate of 151.76, said he has learned to separate outside noise from his on-field performance. The RR captain has also recently been in the spotlight for an off-field incident involving vaping in the dressing room, which drew significant attention on social media.
Speaking after the match, Parag said he now understands that criticism will always follow, regardless of performance.
“First, one thing I have understood now, you mentioned four years, that no matter what I do, people will talk. I have understood that much. Secondly, I have also understood that whatever talk is happening, it shouldn’t affect my game, my form, or my mindset. Because keyboard warriors — that is outside work, and it should be left outside,” Parag said.
He further added that external discussions in IPL should not overshadow players’ hard work and preparation.
“As far as whatever is going on in the IPL this year, a lot of things are happening outside. We are also human; mistakes happen from our side too,” he said.
Parag also expressed disappointment over certain commentary narratives, urging pundits to focus more on the game itself rather than criticism of players beyond cricketing context.
“Players are working very hard. It’s very easy to say when a team gets all out for 75 or 80 that they don’t want to play or don’t know how to play. There is preparation behind every match. I would just request commentators to love cricket, talk about cricket, and keep it about the sport,” he added.
Meanwhile, Rajasthan Royals chased down a massive target of 221, powered by a stunning 38-ball 93 from Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, keeping their playoff hopes alive ahead of their final league match against Mumbai Indians.
Parag had missed the match due to a hamstring issue but was named in the impact players list ahead of the game.
