Rinku Singh to Rejoin India Squad Ahead of Vital Zimbabwe Clash
CHENNAI: India’s middle-order preparations received a boost on Wednesday as batting coach Sitanshu Kotak confirmed that left-handed batter Rinku Singh will rejoin the squad this evening. The development comes ahead of India’s critical Super 8 encounter against Zimbabwe scheduled for Thursday at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.
Coach Confirms Availability
Addressing the pre-match press conference, Kotak clarified the timeline of Singh’s return following a brief absence due to a family medical emergency.
“Rinku Singh is joining the team this evening; he went back home because his father is not well,” Kotak stated. The confirmation alleviates concerns regarding the left-hander’s availability for the must-win fixture.
Family Emergency Details
Reports surfaced earlier that Rinku had left the team camp in Chennai on Tuesday. His father, Khanchand Singh, was admitted to a hospital in the National Capital Region (NCR) in serious condition, necessitating the cricketer’s immediate departure. Consequently, Rinku missed the Tuesday training session at the MA Chidambaram Stadium while the rest of the squad participated in net practice.
Recent Form and Performance Statistics
Rinku Singh’s return is pivotal for the team balance, though the batter is looking to regain momentum. His recent string of scores in the tournament has been underwhelming, including a duck in the 76-run defeat against South Africa in Ahmedabad. Analysts note that his finishing capabilities remain essential despite the recent dip in form.
Recent Match Scores
| Opponent | Venue | Runs Scored | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| South Africa | Ahmedabad | 0 | Lost by 76 runs |
| Netherlands | New Delhi | 6 | – |
| Pakistan | – | 11 | – |
| Namibia | – | 1 | – |
| USA | – | 6 | – |
The management expects Singh to stabilize the lower middle order against Zimbabwe’s bowling attack. For official squad lists and tournament fixtures, visit the International Cricket Council (ICC) website.
Match Implications
Thursday’s game acts as a virtual eliminator for the Indian side in the Super 8 stage. With the batting lineup struggling for consistency in previous outings against South Africa and the USA, the inclusion of a specialist finisher like Singh offers the technical team more strategic options.
- Fixture: India vs Zimbabwe
- Stage: Super 8
- Venue: MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
For live scoring and detailed player profiles, readers can track updates on ESPNcricinfo.