Team India’s preparations for the high-stakes Super-8 match against West Indies receive a boost with finisher Rinku Singh slated to link up in Kolkata this Saturday. BCCI Secretary Devjit Saikia revealed that despite the profound grief from his father Khan Chand Singh’s death on Friday morning, Rinku remains committed to the national cause.
The senior Singh had endured a prolonged fight against liver cancer. Admitted to Greater Noida’s Yatharth Hospital three days prior when his health plummeted, he was on life support until his untimely demise. Rinku flew from Chennai at dawn to perform the final rites, underscoring the cricketer’s dedication even in sorrow.
Tributes poured in from cricket fraternity leaders. UPCA President Prem Manohar Gupta lamented, ‘Devastated by Rinku Singh’s father’s passing. Amid wedding festivities, this tragedy amplifies the pain. The entire UPCA family stands in solidarity with them.’ BCCI chief Mithun Manhas echoed sentiments on X: ‘Deeply saddened by the loss. Prayers for strength to Rinku and family from Lord Shiva.’
Rinku’s T20 World Cup form has been underwhelming—24 runs in five outings, sidelined against Zimbabwe in favor of Sanju Samson. Yet, India’s Super-8 journey shows promise: bouncing back from a South Africa loss with a dominant 72-run thrashing of Zimbabwe.
With semi-final spots on the line, Sunday’s ‘must-win’ against West Indies looms large. Rinku’s return injects vital experience into the squad. As the team navigates turbulence, his story of perseverance could prove the emotional catalyst needed for triumph, reminding fans why cricket transcends the boundary ropes.