Rinku Singh's Reaction After Not Being Picked In India Squad For T20 World Cup 2024

Indian cricketer Rinku Singh, hailed as a star batter and celebrated hero of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), is currently basking in the glory of their triumphant third IPL title win against the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on May 26. Amidst the jubilation, Singh has swiftly redirected his focus towards a loftier goal: securing a spot in the Indian team for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup set to unfold in the USA and West Indies. Although not initially included in India's 15-member squad, the dynamic finisher has been designated as one of the traveling reserves, alongside notable names like Shubman Gill, Avesh Khan, and Khaleel Ahmed. With a formidable record in T20 internationals, amassing 356 runs at a blistering strike rate of 176.23 across 15 matches, Singh stands poised to seize his opportunity should any injury setbacks befall the main squad.

Following the announcement of the World Cup squad, Singh engaged in a candid conversation with Indian skipper Rohit Sharma. Reflecting on his initial disappointment at not clinching a spot in the final 15, Singh confessed to Sharma that he had harbored some regret. However, the exchange with Sharma proved to be a catalyst for renewed determination, igniting a fervent resolve within Singh to redouble his efforts and fortify his candidacy for future selections.

As Singh sets his sights on the coveted international stage, his encounter with Sharma serves as a poignant reminder of the unwavering perseverance and resilience required to navigate the unpredictable terrain of professional cricket. With an indomitable spirit and a steadfast commitment to excellence, Singh remains primed to etch his name in the annals of Indian cricketing glory.

"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 Singh said in an exclusive interview with Jagran.

Buoyed by his recent triumph in clinching the IPL trophy alongside the Kolkata Knight Riders, Rinku Singh exudes a newfound sense of confidence as he sets his sights on the ultimate prize: lifting the T20 World Cup with the Men in Blue. The exhilarating victory with KKR has imbued Singh with a potent belief in his capabilities, fueling his conviction that similar success can be replicated on the global stage. With unwavering determination and a steely resolve, Singh approaches the upcoming tournament with an unwavering sense of purpose, ready to harness the momentum gained from his IPL triumph to propel himself and his team towards the pinnacle of international cricketing glory.

"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," Rinku added.