In a deeply moving display of dedication, Indian cricketer Rinku Singh has rejoined the national team's T20 World Cup camp in Kolkata, just a single day after performing the last rites for his father.
Rinku's father, Khanchand Singh, passed away on Friday morning in a Greater Noida hospital after a tough battle with stage-four liver cancer. A hardworking gas cylinder delivery worker, Khanchand, always supported his son's cricketing dreams despite facing severe financial hardships in their early years. Upon hearing the tragic news, Rinku Singh immediately traveled to his hometown of Aligarh after India’s match against Zimbabwe in Chennai to be with his grieving family for the cremation.
Showing immense mental strength, the left-handed batter returned to the squad almost immediately. He is now back in training at Eden Gardens and is available for selection in India's crucial, must-win Super 8 match against the West Indies on Sunday evening. During his brief absence, the team management thoughtfully gave him the space to mourn, bringing Sanju Samson into the playing eleven.
Rinku’s quick return highlights the highly emotional side of elite sports, where athletes often have to balance deep personal loss with national duty. The entire cricket community has rallied around the young star to offer him immense support during this difficult time.
As India prepares for a high-pressure match that will decide their semi-final fate in the 2026 T20 World Cup, Rinku Singh has already proven his exceptional character. His deep commitment to his country during the darkest moment of his life is truly inspiring.
