Great Indian offspinner Ravichandran Ashwin has expressed concern over the vaping controversy of his former Rajasthan Royals teammate Ryan Parag in IPL 2026.
During RR’s win over Punjab Kings on April 28, TV cameras caught Parag lighting up and vaping an e-cigarette in the dressing room. The issue has sparked controversy, especially since vaping and e-cigarettes are banned in India.
After investigation, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) decided to fine him 25% of his match fee. Riyan Parag. The BCCI said that the RR captain has brought the game into disrepute and gave him one demerit point.
“This situation could have been avoided” – Ashwin
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin said the situation was completely avoidable, especially for the youth. player.
“I think this is completely a situation which could have been avoided. I want players not to get caught in such things. I really don’t want that for a young player, and it is a bit sensitive too. I think, if we look at all the aspects, it could have been avoided,” Ashwin said.
Ashwin further said that although Riyan Parag’s actions were his personal choice, he could have been more careful and not have done it in a public place.
“Sometimes it happens that it is a personal choice, but your personal choice should be in your personal space. If you do all this in a public space, a lot of it can be avoided. All I will say is: this is my little advice as an elder brother. I want to tell Riyan Parag that, whatever happens in your personal life, no one is concerned about it.”
He said, “Nobody can say anything about it. But whatever you do, do it within your personal circle, because you are a captain, you are a franchise leader. You are probably an inspiration to many cricketers, many youngsters, many young Indians and youngsters around the world. So there is some responsibility also.”
“If action is not taken no one will learn” – Ashwin
Ashwin also expressed his sympathy for Parag but stuck to his criticism. He acknowledged that young players are under pressure, but also said that Parag did something which could have been easily avoided.
He said, “I have the deepest sympathy and condolences for the little boy, but at the same time, I completely believe that all of these things should and could have been avoided.”
“It can’t be easy, man. In today’s world, I even sometimes read things and think, man, I mean, sometimes it happens. I’m not saying that these things should be swept under the carpet, because if action is not taken, no one will learn from it. But it is better to avoid these things,” he concluded.
Next match of Riyan Parag and RR
Rajasthan Royals In its next match, it will play Delhi Capitals on May 1 in Jaipur. RR are currently fourth in the points table with six wins from nine matches, but NRR may need a boost soon.
Although Rajasthan has been playing well, Riyan Parag has been mediocre with both bat and ball. Now they will face the team which was bowled out for 75 runs in their last match and this may give them some confidence.
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