Riyan Parag, the hottest cricketing property to emerge from India’s north-east, is expected to get a grand welcome from his home fans when Rajasthan Royals try to ensure a safe passage into the IPL Playoffs against the ousted Punjab Kings in their penultimate league game on Wednesday.

Solitary win will do

Placed second in the 10-team table with 16 points, Royals need to ensure one win in their next two ‘home’ games in Guwahati. That will be enough to seal a last four berth. For the past few years, Guwahati has been Royals’ second home base and it was a strategic move by the franchise having invested a good six years in tapping Parag’s potential.