T20 World Cup: Rinku Singh Returns to Team India Ahead of Zimbabwe Clash Amid Father’s Battle with Cancer

New Delhi: Indian cricket fans have reason to rejoice as Rinku Singh, the formidable lower-order batsman, is all set to rejoin Team India ahead of the crucial T20 World Cup match against Zimbabwe. The news was confirmed by Indian batting coach Sitanshu Kotak during a press conference in Chennai, who stated that Rinku would report to the team hotel by Wednesday evening and be available for Thursday’s Super-8 match.

Rinku’s Sudden Absence

Rinku had to leave the squad abruptly due to a family emergency. His father, Khanchand Singh, was critically ill and admitted to a hospital in Greater Noida, reportedly on ventilator support due to advanced liver cancer. Although Rinku had arrived in Chennai with the team on Monday, he immediately returned home on Tuesday upon learning about his father’s condition.

Coach Kotak clarified during the press conference: “Rinku Singh is returning this evening. He had to leave due to his father’s health. We expect him to join the team by late evening.” This announcement put to rest concerns that Rinku might be ruled out of the tournament, though it remains unclear whether he will be part of the playing XI.

Performance in the Tournament So Far

Rinku has played all five matches for India in the tournament but has scored just 24 runs. Despite this, his role in the lower order has been vital for Team India, and he is expected to be crucial in the upcoming matches against Zimbabwe and West Indies.

Personal Struggles Behind the Scenes

Rinku’s father is battling stage-four liver cancer and has been on ventilator support. Khanchand Singh, who hails from Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, has worked for years as an LPG distributor while supporting Rinku’s cricketing journey. Despite these personal hardships, he played a pivotal role in shaping Rinku into the professional cricketer who first made a mark with Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL and later became a key figure in India’s T20 lower order.

Rinku Singh’s return is seen not just as a boost for Team India’s lineup but also as an inspiring story of resilience and dedication amidst family challenges.