Indian cricketer Rinku Singh suffered a personal loss on Friday as his father, Khanchand Singh, passed away after a prolonged battle with Stage 4 cancer. He was undergoing treatment at Yatharth Hospital in Greater Noida, where his condition reportedly worsened earlier this week, leading to ventilator support. The news was shared by former India spinner Harbhajan Singh, who expressed his condolences and extended prayers to the grieving family. In a message posted on social media, Harbhajan said the loss would be especially difficult for Rinku, who has continued to fulfil his national duties during the ongoing T20 World Cup.
Rinku, 28, had briefly left the team camp ahead of India’s Super 8s clash against Zimbabwe at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai due to his father’s deteriorating health. Although he returned in time for the match, he was not included in the playing XI. Following his father’s demise, he has flown back home to be with his family and is expected to rejoin the squad before the final Super 8s fixture against the West Indies.
Khanchand Singh played a pivotal role in shaping his son’s cricketing journey. Working as an LPG cylinder deliveryman in Aligarh, he supported Rinku despite financial hardships. Last year, Rinku had gifted his father a Kawasaki Ninja motorcycle as a token of gratitude, reflecting the close bond they shared.