In a memorable IPL 2025 clash between Rajasthan Royals and Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens, former Indian opening batter Sunil Gavaskar made a quirky comparison that left fans chuckling. The iconic cricketer, known for his sharp observations and witty remarks, likened Riyan Parag's bowling style to the ever-popular snack in India—pakodas. Yes, you read that right! While commentating with Alan Wilkins, Gavaskar brought out the fun side of cricket as he took the opportunity to explain how Parag’s bowling reminded him of the diverse variety of pakodas available in every corner of the country.
It was during a crucial moment of the match when Parag’s bowling struck gold, as he managed to dismiss the experienced Ajinkya Rahane. Rahane, who was looking steady with a 24-ball 30, fell to Parag’s delivery at a pivotal time. Going for a sweep shot against a ball pitched on middle and off, Rahane could only manage a faint toe-end of the bat. The ball was brilliantly caught by Dhruv Jurel behind the stumps, and Rajasthan Royals had a key breakthrough on their hands. And that’s when Gavaskar seized the moment to bring up his unique analogy.
"Have you ever had a plate of pakodas?" Gavaskar casually asked Wilkins, who, of course, confirmed that he had.
Then, with his trademark wit, the 75-year-old cricketer drew a comparison that had everyone in stitches. “Potato pakoda, capsicum pakoda, onion pakoda, a bit of everything, a mixed pakora. That’s a kind of bowling that Parag has,” said Gavaskar, leaving Wilkins in a burst of laughter and listeners across the nation nodding in amusement.
The Indian Connection
If you’ve ever strolled through an Indian market or street food stall, you know that pakodas are a beloved snack, offering an endless variety of flavors and textures. Just like the snack, Parag’s bowling style seems to have a little bit of everything—off-cutters, slower balls, and deliveries that keep the batsman guessing. There’s a certain unpredictability to his bowling, just like the many variations of pakodas you can find across different regions of India.
Imagine this: A crispy golden potato pakoda is a crowd favorite—simple but reliable. In Parag’s case, that’s probably his more straightforward deliveries. Then you’ve got the capsicum pakoda, a little tangy, a bit fiery—reflecting Parag’s clever use of pace variations and off-spin. And of course, the onion pakoda—sharp, a bit unexpected, and with a crunch that can catch a batsman off guard, just like one of Parag’s surprising deliveries that catches the batsman unprepared. Together, they make up a "mixed pakora" of bowling that’s tough to handle.
Gavaskar's Sense of Humor and Analysis
It’s not the first time Gavaskar has used humor to make a point, but his way of drawing parallels between cricket and everyday life, especially through such relatable food references, certainly stood out. Sunil Gavaskar, a cricketing legend with 125 Tests under his belt, has always been known for his sharp insight into the game. His commentary adds layers to the match, making it not just about the runs or wickets but about the experience of the game itself.
Gavaskar's ability to switch gears from serious analysis to light-hearted, fun observations is one of the reasons why his commentary has been so popular for decades. And with this cheeky analogy, he brought out the lighter side of the game, giving viewers a moment of laughter, but also cleverly hinting at Parag’s versatility as a bowler.
The Impact of Parag's Performance
Riyan Parag’s wicket of Rahane was indeed crucial, coming at a time when the experienced middle-order batsman was looking to settle in and build a partnership. This wicket proved to be pivotal for the Royals, as it halted a budding KKR partnership and turned the tide in their favor. Parag’s varied style of bowling has often made him an unpredictable weapon in the Rajasthan Royals' arsenal, and this moment was a perfect reflection of how his approach can yield valuable results.
But beyond just the wicket, what’s noteworthy is the maturity and composure Parag showed. Despite being relatively young and not a frontline bowler, he’s been effective in crucial moments for his team, particularly in the middle overs. And that’s where the charm of Gavaskar’s pakoda analogy shines—Parag’s bowling isn’t a one-trick pony. Just like how every pakoda has a different filling or spice, Parag’s bowling mixes things up, keeping the batsman on their toes.
Pakoda Metaphor in Cricket
The metaphor of "mixed pakora" isn’t just playful, it’s a subtle nod to the evolving nature of modern cricket, where versatility is key. In the past, bowlers were often expected to specialize in one particular skill—be it pace, spin, or swing. But with the advent of T20 cricket, the role of a bowler has shifted. Today, bowlers are required to have a variety of deliveries in their kit bag to thrive in the shortest format.
In a way, Parag’s ability to keep the batsman guessing with different deliveries makes him an ideal modern-day bowler. Whether it’s his slower ball, his variations in length, or his ability to mix up the pace, there’s always something new for the batsman to deal with—much like the diverse range of pakodas available to enjoy.
The IPL: A Stage for Unconventional Heroes
One of the biggest takeaways from the IPL over the years has been its ability to bring unexpected heroes to the forefront. Parag is one such player, who, despite not being the star bowler for Rajasthan Royals, has stepped up when required. His knack for picking key wickets in pressure moments makes him a valuable asset for his team. And it’s not just the on-field performances that make him intriguing—it's the offbeat references like these from commentators that add an extra layer to his profile.
Just like how the IPL stages countless memorable moments, from last-ball finishes to unexpected centuries, Parag’s “pakoda-like” bowling keeps the game fresh and unpredictable. Whether you’re a cricket fan or just tuning in for the fun, there’s always something to appreciate in these quirky moments that make cricket more than just a game—it’s a celebration of culture, food, and humor.
Conclusion
Sunil Gavaskar's comparison of Riyan Parag’s bowling to a plate of mixed pakodas is the perfect example of how cricket commentary can be entertaining while still shedding light on the subtle brilliance of a player. Parag’s bowling may not always steal the spotlight, but it’s a unique blend of unpredictability and effectiveness, much like the popular snack. And in a format like the IPL, where every delivery counts, this "mixed pakora" style of bowling can often make all the difference.
So, the next time Parag takes the ball, remember Gavaskar’s words: it’s not just bowling; it’s a little bit of everything—a delicious blend of surprises, spice, and crunch. And if you’re ever at a cricket match and someone offers you pakodas, you might just think of Riyan Parag and his wicket-taking deliveries.
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