Rinku Singh’s return to the Indian T20I setup came with pressure, expectation and a clear sense of purpose — and the left-handed batter admitted as much after playing a decisive role in India’s emphatic win over New Zealand in the first T20I at Nagpur on Wednesday. A proven finisher, Rinku said he walked out to bat fully aware of the responsibility on his shoulders, determined to justify the opportunity and deliver when it mattered most.
India were put in to bat first, and by the time Rinku arrived at the crease in the 14th over, the platform had already been laid. Abhishek Sharma’s explosive start, coupled with Sanju Samson’s support at the top, gave India early momentum. That foundation was strengthened by skipper Suryakumar Yadav’s fluent 32 and Hardik Pandya’s vital contribution through the middle overs.
With the innings set up for a late surge, Rinku embraced his role and produced a polished finishing act, remaining unbeaten on 44 off just 20 balls. Reflecting on the innings in a video shared by BCCI.tv, Rinku credited the collective batting effort for allowing him to play freely at the end. He spoke warmly about the stars provided by Abhishek and Sanju, and the stability added by senior players like Hardik, Suryakumar and Ishan Kishan.
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“When I finished, the match was very good overall. I felt very good when I made my comeback,” he said, underlining the emotional significance of returning to the national side.
Rinku did not shy away from admitting the pressure he felt. With head coach Gautam Gambhir handing him the opportunity and captain Suryakumar Yadav backing him, expectations were high.
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“There was a lot of pressure to make runs,” Rinku said, explaining that his mindset was simple — score as many runs as possible and finish the innings strongly. In the death overs, he relies on instinct, backing himself to hit the ball as it comes without overthinking.
Not everything went perfectly for Rinku on the night. During New Zealand’s chase, he dropped a straightforward catch off Jasprit Bumrah in the 11th over, giving Mark Chapman a reprieve at a crucial stage when Chapman and Glenn Phillips were threatening to take the game away. Rinku admitted he was disappointed, especially for Bumrah, but pointed out that the senior pacer responded with a strong spell thereafter.
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Speaking about his fielding, Rinku highlighted the clarity provided by fielding coach Dilip. Stationed on the bigger side of the ground, his responsibility was to save runs and apply pressure. “I enjoy fielding a lot,” he said, adding that fitness and enjoyment are key ingredients for consistency in the field. For Rinku, fielding is not a chore but an extension of his commitment to the team.
Looking ahead, Rinku spoke candidly about his World Cup ambitions. Having been on the sidelines during India’s previous triumphant campaign, he knows the value of patience. Carrying his family’s blessings and faith, Rinku hopes to contribute on the field this time around. For him, lifting the World Cup trophy as a playing member of the XI would be the ultimate reward — a dream he continues to chase with humility, hard work and belief.
