Kris Srikkanth Attacks India Selectors Over Rinku Singh's Exclusion From T20 World Cup 2024 Squad

Despite his commendable performances for the national team, Rinku Singh found himself excluded from India's 15-member squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, much to the disappointment of fans and pundits alike. With a track record boasting 15 T20I matches and 356 runs at an impressive average of 89 and a striking 176.23, the 26-year-old seemed poised for a spot. Anticipation was high, especially ahead of the 17th edition of the IPL, where Rinku was considered a strong contender for the playing XI.

However, fate took a sharp turn, relegating him to the status of a travelling reserve. This unexpected twist sparked criticism, notably from former cricketer Krishnamacharya Srikkanth, who minced no words in his condemnation of the BCCI selectors. Srikkanth pointed out Rinku's pivotal contributions against formidable opponents like South Africa and his memorable partnership with Rohit Sharma against Afghanistan earlier in the year.

In Srikkanth's eyes, Rinku had become a scapegoat sacrificed to accommodate other players, a decision he deemed unjustifiable and, frankly, rubbish. The veteran's outburst underscored the frustration felt by many over what they perceived as a questionable selection process. Despite Rinku's undeniable talent and proven ability on the field, his dreams of representing his country on the grand stage of the T20 World Cup were dashed, leaving him to watch from the sidelines as others took center stage.

“He has played match-winning knocks in South Africa. Remember the game against Afghanistan in which Rohit scored a hundred? India were 22 for 4, from there, they scored 212. Rinku played a crucial knock. He has given his all whenever he played for India. This is rubbish, rubbish selection. Why do you need 4 spinners? All of them have to go? You have made the selection to please a few people and you have made Rinku Singh a scapegoat," former Indian cricketer Kris Srikkanth said on his YouTube channel.

Srikkanth further affirmed Rinku's consistent excellence in international cricket, asserting that he's seized every chance with prowess. He went further, suggesting dropping Yashasvi Jaiswal to accommodate Rinku, given his unwavering performance. 

“I am not at all happy. Come on all of you. Rinku Singh has been spoken about all over the world. He has performed in each and every opportunity he has got. How can you drop Rinku Singh? You drop anyone else, it doesn't matter. In my view, Rinku Singh should have been there, even if that meant you had to drop Yashasvi Jaiswal," Srikkanth added.