Indian star batter and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) hero Rinku Singh is currently basking in the glory of KKR’s triumphant IPL 2024 campaign, where they secured their third title by defeating Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by eight wickets on May 26. However, Rinku’s focus has now shifted to a new goal: representing the Indian team in the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies. Although not included in India’s main 15-member squad, the explosive finisher has been named as one of the travelling reserves, alongside Shubman Gill, Avesh Khan, and Khaleel Ahmed.
With 356 runs at a remarkable strike rate of 176.23 in 15 T20Is, the 26-year-old remains hopeful for an opportunity to showcase his skills on the global stage should any injuries occur. Following the announcement of the World Cup squad, Rinku had a meaningful conversation with Indian captain Rohit Sharma. Reflecting on their discussion, Rinku admitted feeling disappointed about not making the final 15 but found renewed motivation from Sharma’s encouragement.
“Yes, anyone feels a little sad if they are not selected despite good performance. However, this time the selection could not take place due to team combination. No matter what, one should not think too much about what is not in one’s hands. Yes, I was a little worried in the beginning. Whatever happens, happens only for good. Rohit bhaiya did not say anything special. All he said was to just keep working hard. There is the World Cup again after two years. There is no need to worry more. That’s all he said to me,” Rinku Singhshared in an exclusive interview with Jagran.
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Rinku Singh expressed his confidence and determination to contribute to the Indian team’s success in the World Cup, drawing inspiration from his recent IPL victory with KKR.
#RinkuSingh reveals first conversation with #RohitSharma after snub from India’s #T20WorldCup2024 squadhttps://t.co/VfvkHh01AH
— Sports Tak (@sports_tak) May 28, 2024
“Yes, I am going. I have to leave on the 28th. This is my dream to contribute whatever I can to the team. That will be good for me and also good for the team. Now I want our team to win the World Cup. My dream is also that we win the World Cup. Winning the World Cup is a big thing. Coming from where I come from, even living in a reserve is a big thing for me. My only dream now is for Team India to win the trophy and for me to lift that trophy. It is a big thing for me that from the place I am from, it is a big thing to make a place in the reserve,” he added.
Rinku Singh also reflected on his experience playing under Gautam Gambhir’s mentorship during the 17th edition of the IPL.
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“This time we had a very good IPL season. It was a lot of fun working with Gautam Gambhir sir. Learned a lot from him. The team atmosphere was very good this time. What could be better than that we become champions? Now it will be fun if we win more World Cup trophies,” he concluded.
Rinku’s journey from an IPL champion to a potential World Cup reserve highlights his determination and passion for the game, and his story continues to inspire many aspiring cricketers.
