In the IPL 2024 match against the Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium, Rinku Singh made a notable contribution, scoring nine runs off eight balls. However, despite his performance in the domestic league, Rinku found himself excluded from India’s squad for the T20 World Cup 2024, sparking controversy and disappointment among fans and experts.
Rinku had been earmarked for the finisher’s role by the Indian team management since his impressive display in the 2023 Indian Premier League. Nevertheless, the selectors opted to prioritize an additional spinner for the ICC tournament, leading to Rinku’s omission.
The day after a brief chat with India captain Rohit Sharma at the Wankhede Stadium, where preparations were underway for the IPL 2024 match between Mumbai Indians and Kolkata Knight Riders, Rinku had a chance to showcase his abilities and potentially refute the selectors’ decision. Despite KKR’s early struggles against Mumbai’s bowling attack, Rinku’s innings began promisingly with two boundaries off Hardik Pandya. However, he was dismissed by Piyush Chawla, attempting a quick single but mistiming the shot and offering a catch to the bowler.
Chief selector Ajit Agarkar addressed Rinku’s exclusion during a media interaction at the BCCI headquarters in Mumbai. He expressed that the decision was among the most challenging for the selectors, emphasizing the importance of finding the right balance in the bowling unit. Agarkar clarified that Rinku had not performed poorly, but the selectors prioritized having sufficient bowling options for varied conditions. Consequently, Rinku was placed on the T20 World Cup reserve list alongside Shubman Gill, Avesh Khan, and Khaleel Ahmed.
Agarkar emphasized that the decision was not a reflection of Rinku’s abilities but rather a strategic choice to optimize the team’s composition. With two proficient wicket-keeper batsmen already in the squad, the selectors opted for an additional bowling option. Despite being named a traveling reserve, Agarkar acknowledged the disappointment for Rinku but reiterated the constraints of squad selection, where only 15 players could be chosen.
