Rinku Singh has once again stepped into the spotlight as Kolkata Knight Riders’ finishing specialist, turning a difficult spell into a statement performance. After posting consecutive low scores earlier in the season, the KKR batter rediscovered his rhythm against Rajasthan Royals on Sunday and delivered a four-wicket win that snapped Kolkata out of a run of setbacks. With his side chasing 156, wickets fell at regular intervals, but Rinku stayed composed and finished unbeaten on 53 off 34 balls, guiding the team home with two deliveries remaining.
KKR’s turnaround and Rinku’s match-winning finish
- Kolkata Knight Riders entered the contest needing a lift after enduring five straight defeats this season.
- Against Rajasthan Royals, KKR set out to chase a target of 156.
- The pursuit started under pressure, and KKR lost wickets in quick succession during the middle phase.
- Rinku Singh, celebrated for his ability to close out matches, took charge when it mattered most.
- He remained unbeaten on 53 from 34 deliveries, playing with calm control despite the volatility of the chase.
- KKR crossed the line with two balls to spare, recording their first win of the campaign.
Rinku’s resurgence also came after a challenging period marked by harsh online criticism. During his lean run, he faced aggressive trolling on social media, including class-based jibes. Some users went as far as suggesting the KKR batter performed better when he was “underprivileged,” an idea that drew strong backlash even from within the cricket community.
Aakash Chopra backs Rinku after the knock
Former India opener Aakash Chopra came out firmly in support of Rinku following the unbeaten innings and condemned the insensitive remarks being made online. Chopra questioned the morality of turning someone’s background into a measure of their talent, saying it is unacceptable to frame a player’s ability around their circumstances.
Chopra also pointed out that Rinku has not always been afforded consistent opportunities, while emphasising that even top performers go through rough patches. He argued that the trolling was disproportionate and compared it to treating the batter as though he had committed a wrongdoing. He further reminded viewers that Rinku has reached the highest levels in cricket and should not be reduced to a narrative built on criticism.
Rinku on his mindset during the chase
After the win, Rinku explained the thinking behind his approach in the innings. He said his focus was on taking the chase deep and ensuring the finishing job for his team. Rinku added that he had discussed the plan with both the coach and his batting partner, and that the match was in a “tricky situation,” which required patience and the right execution. He also addressed how an early reprieve affected his thinking, noting that in moments like that the mind can lose its sharpness, leading a batter to play shots that come instinctively rather than with full clarity.
