The clamor for Riyan Parag’s inclusion in India’s ODI setup has reached a fever pitch. After a breakout IPL 2024, where he amassed 573 runs at an astonishing average of 52.09, fans and pundits alike have been left scratching their heads: why is this explosive talent not in the Indian team? The man who has finally provided a clear, insider’s answer is none other than the legendary off-spinner, Ravichandran Ashwin.
In a recent and much-discussed analysis, Ashwin cut through the noise surrounding Riyan Parag’s selection. He wasn’t questioning Parag’s talent or his IPL numbers. Instead, Ashwin pinpointed a very specific tactical gap.
“He can’t fit in India’s plans,” Ashwin stated bluntly. The core issue, according to the veteran, is Parag’s lack of experience and proven track record batting at the crucial No. 5 or No. 6 positions in the ODI middle order . Ashwin emphasized that to break into the current setup, Parag needs to demonstrate his adaptability in these specific roles at the domestic level first .
India’s ODI middle order is currently a high-stakes battleground. With established stars like Shreyas Iyer and the in-form KL Rahul (who has been a regular at No. 5) anchoring the innings , the competition is fierce . The roles at No. 5 and 6 are not just about scoring runs; they demand a unique skillset:
This is the specific “bill” that Ashwin believes Parag has not yet shown he can fit .
There’s no denying Riyan Parag’s immense talent. His IPL performances for the Rajasthan Royals have been nothing short of spectacular. In 2025, he was even promoted to the No. 3 position, a testament to his growing confidence and the trust placed in him . His ability to play spin, hit big, and contribute with his handy off-spin makes him a complete T20 package.
However, the ODI format is a different beast. While Parag has a solid List A average of 41, the context of those runs matters immensely to the selectors . Has he consistently walked in at No. 5 on a tricky pitch with the scoreboard reading 180/4 and built a match-winning partnership? That’s the specific scenario Ashwin and the Indian think-tank want to see more of before handing him the national jersey in the 50-over format.
As of now, Parag is still largely viewed as a top-order batsman or a finisher , a role that doesn’t perfectly align with India’s current ODI blueprint for the middle overs.
Ashwin’s message to Parag is clear and constructive. It’s not a verdict on his career, but a roadmap for his future. To force his way into the Riyan Parag ODI conversation, he needs to:
By doing this, he can directly address the very concern Ashwin has highlighted and make it impossible for the selectors to ignore him. His journey is a reminder for all young players that IPL success is a fantastic launchpad, but national selection demands proof of skill in the specific context of international cricket.
Ravichandran Ashwin’s take on Riyan Parag is a masterclass in understanding the nuances of international selection. It’s not just about raw talent or a hot streak in a franchise league. It’s about fitting a precise, strategic need. While Parag’s T20 future for India seems bright, his path to a permanent Riyan Parag ODI jersey is now clearly marked: dominate from the No. 5 or 6 spot in domestic cricket. The ball, quite literally, is in his court. For more on the evolving dynamics of the Indian cricket team, check out our deep dive into the India ODI middle order battle.
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