Rinku Singh rushes home as father battles critical illness, India weigh replacement options

India’s T20 World Cup campaign has been jolted by an emotional development after Rinku Singh flew back home due to a serious family health emergency , putting his availability for the crucial Super Eights clash against Zimbabwe in serious doubt.

According to reports, Rinku’s father, Khanchand Singh, has been admitted to a hospital in Greater Noida and is said to be in critical condition . Sources indicate he has been battling a long term liver ailment that has worsened significantly in recent days. While the Board of Control for Cricket in India has not officially detailed the medical condition, the urgency of Rinku’s departure from Chennai suggests the situation is grave. The cricketer skipped India’s training session at the MA Chidambaram Stadium before immediately returning home to be with his family.

The timing could not be more sensitive for Team India. After suffering a 76 run defeat to South Africa in their Super Eights opener, the upcoming match has effectively turned into a must win contest . Rinku has endured a lean run with the bat in the tournament so far, registering a duck against South Africa and modest scores in earlier group matches.

With his participation uncertain, the team management may be forced to rethink their middle order combination . Sanju Samson appears to be the frontrunner to step in, offering flexibility and experience in pressure situations despite his poor form recently. Vice captain Axar Patel is another strong option, particularly for the balance he brings as an all rounder on a surface likely to assist spin.

For now, cricket takes a back seat. The immediate concern remains the health of Rinku’s father, with fans and teammates hoping for positive news, even as India prepares for one of its most decisive matches of the tournament.