After an impressive performance in IPL 2023, Rinku Singh has received his maiden call-up to the Indian team for the upcoming Asian Games. Overcoming years of struggle, Rinku has managed to break into the national side following his standout displays for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the recently concluded season.
As he prepares for the Asian Games, Rinku aims to maintain his good form and establish himself as a key player for the Indian team. Interestingly, the young left-handed batsman from Uttar Pradesh recently revealed that his cricketing idol is not MS Dhoni or Virat Kohli, but IPL legend Suresh Raina.
Being a left-hander himself, it is natural for Rinku to look up to the “Mr. IPL,” who has been one of the top performers in the league. Rinku also acknowledged the support he has received from veteran spinner Harbhajan Singh throughout his journey.
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In an interview with RevSportz, Rinku expressed his admiration for Raina and his gratitude towards Harbhajan Singh, stating, “Suresh Raina has been my idol. I am regularly in touch with him. He is the IPL King, and he keeps sharing his inputs with me. He has helped me a lot in my career. Bhajju pa (Harbhajan Singh) has also helped me a lot. I am grateful for their support, and whenever such big players talk about you, it motivates you to push yourself more.”
Rinku Singh said “Suresh Raina is my idol, I am regularly in touch with him, he is the IPL King & he keeps sharing inputs with me – he has helped me a lot”. [RevSportz] pic.twitter.com/XbPkczhI3u
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) July 15, 2023
During the IPL 2023, Rinku had an outstanding season, amassing 474 runs for KKR despite the team not performing up to expectations. His remarkable moments in the tournament included a sensational display in a match against the Gujarat Titans, where he smashed five sixes in the last over to secure victory for KKR.
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The Indian team sees the Asian Games as an opportunity to provide international exposure to their young players. It marks the first time that India is sending players to the event since it became a medal event in 2010. While other Asian teams have previously sent their second-string sides, India is determined to send a strong team led by captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, aiming to clinch the gold medal for the first time in the competition.
