Cricket is a game of moments—some fleeting, some immortal. On May 4, 2025, at the iconic Eden Gardens, Riyan Parag, the young all-rounder from Assam, carved his name into the annals of IPL history with a performance that was as much about redemption as it was about raw power.
In a single, electrifying innings, Riyan Parag not only led the Rajasthan Royals from the front but also became the first player in IPL history to smash six consecutive sixes, fulfilling a promise he made to himself and his fans two years earlier.
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The Road to Redemption: Parag’s Journey from Doubt to Dominance
When the Rajasthan Royals retained Riyan Parag for a staggering ₹14 crore ahead of the IPL 2025 season, the cricketing world was abuzz with skepticism. Parag, who had been with the Royals since 2019, had shown flashes of brilliance but struggled for consistency.
His 2023 season was particularly disappointing—just 78 runs in 7 matches, and a premature exit from the playing XI. Critics questioned the Royals’ faith in him, but the franchise saw something others didn’t. Not only did they retain him, but they also handed him the vice-captaincy, signaling their belief in his potential and leadership.
For Parag, the 2025 season was a chance at redemption. The Royals, unfortunately, had already been knocked out of playoff contention, but for Parag, every match was an opportunity to prove his worth—not just to the world, but to himself. The stage was set for a dead rubber against the Kolkata Knight Riders, but Parag had other plans.
The Knock That Shook Eden Gardens
Parag’s innings was nothing short of spectacular. Facing a formidable KKR bowling attack, he unleashed a flurry of strokes that left the crowd in awe. He scored a breathtaking 95 off just 45 balls, single-handedly keeping the Royals in the hunt.
To put his performance in perspective, the rest of the RR batting lineup managed only 72 runs off 61 balls combined. Parag’s knock was a masterclass in power-hitting, timing, and composure under pressure.
But it was what happened in the 13th and 14th overs that truly set the night alight. Facing Moeen Ali, Parag launched five consecutive deliveries over the ropes, each six more audacious than the last. The Eden Gardens crowd, known for its passion and cricketing knowledge, rose to its feet in anticipation.
On the second ball of the next over, bowled by Varun Chakaravarthy, Parag completed the unprecedented feat—six sixes in six consecutive balls. For the first time in IPL history, a batter had achieved this milestone.
Fulfilling a Promise: The Tweet That Started It All
What made this achievement even more poetic was its backstory. In 2023, after a string of disappointing performances, Parag tweeted that he felt he could hit four sixes in an over. It was a bold claim, especially given his form at the time.
The season ended in heartbreak, with Parag dropped from the team and his promise unfulfilled. But he didn’t let that setback define him. Instead, he used it as fuel, working tirelessly on his game and mental strength.
Two years later, Parag didn’t just hit four sixes in an over—he went two better, making history and silencing his doubters in the most emphatic way possible. Social media erupted, with fans and pundits alike celebrating his perseverance and self-belief. The tweet from 2023 resurfaced, now a testament to the power of manifesting one’s dreams and backing them up with hard work.
The Impact: More Than Just Runs
While Parag’s 95 ultimately wasn’t enough to secure victory for the Royals—KKR edged out a win by a single run—his innings was about more than just numbers.
It was a statement of intent, a reminder that cricket is as much about character as it is about skill. For the Royals, Parag’s resurgence is a beacon of hope as they look to rebuild for the future. For Indian cricket, it’s a sign that the next generation is ready to take center stage.
Parag’s six-hitting spree also set social media ablaze. The official IPL account hailed him as “Rampant Riyan,” while fans flooded timelines with clips of his monstrous hits. The cricketing fraternity, from legends to current stars, lauded his achievement, recognizing the mental fortitude required to pull off such a feat under pressure.
Why Riyan Parag’s Sixes Matter for Indian Cricket
In a league that has seen legends like Chris Gayle, AB de Villiers, and MS Dhoni redefine the art of six-hitting, Parag’s achievement stands out for its context and timing.
He didn’t just break a record; he shattered a mental barrier, proving that belief and hard work can turn even the wildest dreams into reality. For a generation of fans and aspiring cricketers, Parag’s sixes are more than just runs—they’re a symbol of hope, courage, and the magic of sport.
What’s Next for Riyan Parag?
With the IPL 2025 season drawing to a close for the Royals, all eyes will be on Parag as he looks to build on this historic performance. His journey is a lesson in resilience—a reminder that setbacks are temporary, but the will to succeed can change destinies. As he continues to evolve as a leader and a player, Parag’s story will inspire countless young cricketers across the country.
Final Thoughts: A Night to Remember
Riyan Parag’s six consecutive sixes will be replayed for years to come, not just for their audacity but for the story they represent. In a world quick to judge and slow to forgive, Parag showed that redemption is always within reach for those who dare to dream and work for it. As the sun set over Eden Gardens, a new star rose—one six at a time.
FAQ:-
Rajasthan Royals stand-in skipper Riyan Parag didn’t mince his words when it came to pinning the blame of the team’s poor show in IPL 2025 campaign.
Riyan Parag is primarily a right-arm off-spinner. He is also a right-handed middle-order batsman, making him an all-rounder.
