Rinku Singh is an emerging talent in Indian cricket, known for his fearless batting, resilience, and ability to finish games under pressure. Rinku's journey from a humble background to becoming a key player in the Indian Premier League (IPL) is an inspiring tale of perseverance and dedication. A left-handed middle-order batsman, Rinku gained recognition through his consistent performances in domestic cricket for Uttar Pradesh. His aggressive stroke play and ability to accelerate the scoring rate made him a sought-after player in T20 leagues. His breakthrough moment came in the IPL 2023 season, when he scripted one of the most remarkable finishes in cricket history, smashing five consecutive sixes in the final over to secure an unbelievable victory for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).
Since joining KKR in 2018, Rinku has evolved into a dependable finisher, earning praise for his composure under pressure. Beyond the IPL, he has impressed in domestic tournaments and is knocking on the doors of the Indian national team. With his never-give-up attitude, hard-hitting ability, and hunger for success, Rinku Singh is poised to make an even bigger impact on Indian cricket in the years to come. In a free-wheeling conversation with House of TMM, he looks back on his journey with a smile of gratitude.
Tell us something memorable from your childhood that makes you look back with a smile.
I have always shared a deep and emotional bond with my mother. I still remember a moment from my childhood when I received an envelope with Rs. 501 from someone. I was so thrilled that I didn’t want to part with it, insisting on keeping it for myself. But eventually, I handed it over to my mom, knowing she would use it in the best way possible. (Laughs). Even today, whenever I think about that moment, it brings a smile to my face and makes me appreciate our bond even more.
How and when did you feel that cricket was your true calling?
The five of us brothers, along with other boys from the colony, always loved playing cricket after school. It was during an inter-school tournament that my friend Mintu and I played our first match with a leather ball. I scored 64 runs off 32 balls, remaining not out. That day marked a turning point for me—it was when I gained the confidence to pursue a career in cricket.
Do you still remember the feeling you had when you first played an international cricket match? Any memory you would like to talk about?
When you play on the streets, it's just for yourself, but when you play for your country, a sense of responsibility takes over—and my journey was no different. I still remember my first international match; I was fielding, and for the first 30-40 minutes, I couldn't fully absorb the moment. But in the second match, I got the chance to bat first, and that game earned me my first Man of the Match award—a memory I will cherish for a lifetime.
How do you mentally prepare yourself to handle pressure in high-stakes matches?
I am mostly a calm person, and I follow the same character on the ground too. I feel that when you keep calm, your approach to stressful situations also changes, and it becomes slightly easier to make the right decision in the interest of the team at large.
Cricket is evolving rapidly, with new formats and playing conditions. How do you adapt your game to stay ahead, especially as a finisher in T20 cricket?
Whatever the format, practice is the key to success, and I make sure that I am on the ground every day and go back home with a new skill to nurture my future games.
How would you define your bond with the KKR family, and was the win in 2024 an easy chase?
I have been associated with KKR since 2018, and over the years, both IPL and KKR have transformed not just my game but also my family's future. I still remember how the KKR management stood by me during my injury days and allowed me to prove my potential. It’s a bond built on commitment and trust—one that I will cherish for a lifetime.
Also, what is that one thing that you like about Shah Rukh Khan the most? What kind of bond do you share with him?
His modesty speaks volumes about his personality and the character he upholds as a megastar with a global fan following. Whether in the dressing room or at the lunch table, he never carries the aura of a star—he makes everyone feel at ease. But for me, the best moments with him are on the dance floor—his energy is simply unmatched!
As a middle-order batter, you often have to make split-second decisions. Can you share an instance where your tactical decision-making turned the game around?
There isn’t a specific instance, but as a sportsperson, I firmly believe that when you play with dedication and commitment, your game will never let you down. No matter the challenges, trust in your abilities, and you will rise above all odds on the field.
Coming from a humble background to achieving national recognition, how do you stay grounded and continue to push yourself for excellence?
I have always believed that hard work and sincerity never go in vain. For me, they have truly paid off, and I can confidently say that if you give your 100% to your passion, nothing in life is impossible. Stay dedicated, keep pushing forward, and success will surely follow.
Team Credits:
Creative Director & Stylist: Pooja Gupta, Spectrum Styles
Photographer: Shivam Vashisht
Designers/Brands: Nasir, Hubberholme, Dennis Lingo, Ayush Jain, Alto Vida Lifestyle, Jia Diamonds, Liberty Shoes, Dmodot, Armani Exchange, Zara, Tommy Hilfiger
Hair & Make Up: Kanikka Tandon
Venue Partner: Wave City Ghaziabad, NH24
Assistant Stylist: Gunjan Durgapal
