Riyan Parag should grab the opportunity: Sunil Gavaskar

Our Sports Reporter

GUWAHATI: Legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar today advised the local organizers to provide more match practice to the State cricketers before the start of the season. He beliefs match practice is the best way for a cricketer to prepare himself for a new season.

Addressing a media gathering in the city Sunil Gavaskar said,"Domestic cricket season in the country starts around November. So it is better to start the local season within September. It will help the cricketers to get more and more match practice."

Gavaskar is in the city to participate in a function which was organized by TOPCEM (Meghalaya Cement). The legendary cricketer is the Brand Ambassador of the company.

It is a very common fact that each and every time Assam participate in the national level competition, the batting becomes the main area of concern. It's not like there is a lack of talent in the State. The problem occurs due to lack of consistency in the performance. When a reporter placed this point to Gavaskar, he replied, "Earlier, I mentioned that match practice is very essential for the preparation. So it should get priority. At the same time if possible you should invite reputed coaches here to train your batsmen to overcome the problem."

Meanwhile, the former Indian captain said that Rajasthan Royals' Riyan Parag has potential and he should grab the opportunity. He also acknowledged his fielding skill. "Riyan didn't get many opportunities to play but his fielding was very impressive and it can be handy in selection. If it is found that the batting skills of two batsmen are almost equal level, good fielding skill can bring advantage for selection. Riyan should grab an opportunity whenever he gets a chance to play," said Gavaskar.

The legendary cricketer also feels that Guwahati is capable of hosting Test cricket in the coming days. Wishing that he wants to spend more time in this city, he said, "I have visited Guwahati on several occasions but wasn't able to stay for a long period. I feel it would be possible only if the city gets the opportunity to host Test matches. Hotels in this city are good and equipped with all necessary facilities, including gym, which are required for the teams. Air connectivity is also good here"

The function was attended by Director and President - Sales & Marketing of Meghalaya Cement Bajrang Lohia and Dr. Anil Kapur respectively where a special scheme for the masons was launched. Assam Sports Journalists' Association also feliciated Gavaskar in the function.

Also Read: Vivian Richards, Sunil Gavaskar best: Kapil Dev

Also Watch: PM Modi inaugurated 7 state-of-the-Art-Cancer-Centres