Rinku Singh, the rising star of Indian cricket, has expressed his confidence in India winning a gold medal at the upcoming Asian Games 2023, set to take place in Hangzhou, China. The swashbuckling left-hander gained widespread fame during the IPL 2023 season when he smashed five massive sixes in the final over of a match, leading his team, KKR, to a stunning victory.
Following his remarkable IPL performance, Rinku Singh received an international call-up for the India side and played two T20I matches during the tour of Ireland, scoring 38 runs at a staggering strike rate of 180.95.
In an exclusive interview with Times of India, Rinku Singh reflected on the impact of his extraordinary performance in the IPL and its life-changing consequences. He described the feeling as indescribable and revealed that the match and those five sixes played a significant role in his career. He used his newfound success to buy a new house for his family and ensure the well-being of his siblings. His family serves as his primary motivation for playing cricket.
“It took time for me to realise what I did. The feeling is indescribable. It took a while to sink in. Yes, those five sixes changed my life. Everyone knows about my background – the struggle my family and I have faced and how I have reached here. So, that match and those five sixes have played a big role in my career. Now, I have a new house. I am happy that I got a new house for my family. I have ensured my siblings are settled. I have changed the lifestyle of my family. I play cricket for my family, and my family is my motivation,” Rinku Singh said.
Despite the newfound recognition and attention, Rinku remains humble, stating that the only noticeable change in his life is that people now recognize him and ask for photos when he goes out.
“It always feels good when you do something for your team, and I will continue to do that. I am still the same Rinku, and nothing has changed in me. Yes, one thing that has changed is that when I used to go out earlier, no one would recognise me. I could go out alone and roam around freely. Now, that is not possible. Now people mob me and click photos with me (laughs). That’s the only difference in my life,” Rinku added.
Looking ahead to the Asian Games, Rinku Singh expressed confidence in India reaching the final, ideally against arch-rivals Pakistan. He cited the strength of the Indian squad, including talented players and the capable leadership of captain Ruturaj Gaikwad. Rinku eagerly anticipates joining the Indian team and firmly believes that India will clinch the gold medal at the Asian Games.
The men’s cricket competition at the Asian Games 2023 will follow a T20 format from September 28 to October 8. While the opponent for India’s opening match on October 3 is yet to be determined, the team is gearing up with high hopes for a successful campaign, driven by the youthful exuberance and talent of players like Rinku Singh.
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