India batter Rinku Singh is unlikely to play in the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 match against Zimbabwe. The game will be played on Thursday, February 26, at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
Rinku was not seen at India’s practice session in Chepauk. Multiple media reports confirmed his absence. According to a report by NDTV, Rinku left the squad due to a family emergency.
His father is suffering from stage 4 liver cancer. He is currently in the hospital on ventilator support. Rinku has gone back home to be with his family during this difficult time.
There is no confirmation on when he will return. So, it is unclear if he will play any further part in the tournament.
India are coming into this match after a heavy 76-run loss to South Africa. It is now a must-win game for the Men in Blue. They need to win their remaining two matches to stay in contention for the semi-finals.
Rinku has not had a strong tournament so far. He has scored only 24 runs in five innings. He remained not out twice. His best score has been 11*.
India squad includes Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Sanju Samson, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav, Axar Patel, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, and Mohammed Siraj.
Who Will Replace Rinku Singh?
India may make changes to the playing XI. Sanju Samson is likely to replace Rinku Singh. He can add variety to the top order.
Vice-captain Axar Patel is also expected to return to the side. He may replace Washington Sundar for this crucial clash.
ALSO READ Mohammad Kaif questions Axar Patel’s exclusion in India vs South Africa T20 World Cup 2026 match
