'He is heartbroken': Rinku Singh's father reacts to son's omission from India's T20 World Cup squad

The announcement of India's squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup brought its share of surprises and unexpected decisions, as confirmed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). While the inclusion of Sanju Samson as the backup wicketkeeper and Yuzvendra Chahal's return to the team caught the eye, the exclusion of Rinku Singh has left fans and former cricketers alike in shock.

Kolkata Knight Riders' Rinku Singh has been exceptional in his appearances for the Indian national team. Throughout his 11 T20 International innings, Singh has not only delivered consistent performances but has also been instrumental in guiding the team to victory on 7 occasions by remaining not out. With a robust average of 89 and a strike rate exceeding 176, his omission has puzzled the cricketing community.

The news of his exclusion was particularly hard on his family, who had high hopes for his inclusion in the World Cup squad. In an emotional interview with Bharat24, Rinku Singh's father shared the family's disappointment. "Umeedein to bohot thi aur isliye thoda dukh bhi hai. Hum mithai, patakhe laye the, socha that wo 11 mein khelega. (There was hope and that is why there is a bit of sadness. We brought sweets, crackers to celebrate, we thought Rinku would play in the first eleven)," he expressed.

The impact of the selection news was palpable in the Singh household, especially on Rinku himself, who was distraught by the decision. His father revealed how Rinku broke the news to his mother, highlighting his heartbreak. "Uska dil toh tuta hai. Usne apni maa se baat ki aur bataya ki uska naam nahi hai 11 ya 15 mein. Lekin bataya hain ke wo jaa raha hain (He is heartbroken. He spoke to his mother and told her that he was not picked in the 11 or 15. But he also said that he will be travelling with the team," his father said.

Despite the setback, it appears Rinku Singh will still be involved with the team, albeit not as a primary squad member. This role might provide him an opportunity to remain close to the team environment and possibly get a chance if circumstances change.