Rinku Singh: From Aligarh’s Streets to Cricketing Stardom
Rinku Singh’s journey from the humble lanes of Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, to the grand stadiums of international cricket is nothing short of inspirational. Born on October 12, 1997, into a modest family where his father delivered LPG cylinders and his mother managed the household, Rinku’s early life was filled with challenges. Despite financial constraints, his passion for cricket remained unwavering.
Early Struggles and Domestic Rise
Rinku’s cricketing journey began with representing Uttar Pradesh in domestic circuits. He made his List A debut at 16 in March 2014 and stepped into first-class cricket by November 2016. His consistent performances caught the attention of IPL scouts, leading to his acquisition by Kings XI Punjab in 2017. However, it was his move to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in 2018 for ₹80 lakh that marked a turning point in his career.
The IPL Breakthrough
Rinku’s defining moment came during the IPL 2023 season. In a match against Gujarat Titans, he etched his name in history by hitting five consecutive sixes in the final over, successfully chasing down 29 runs—the highest ever in the last over of an IPL match.
International Debut and Recognition
Rinku’s IPL heroics paved the way for his international debut. He represented India in T20Is against Ireland in August 2023. Although his debut match was rain-affected, he showcased his potential in subsequent games, including a notable 190* run partnership with Rohit Sharma against Afghanistan, setting records for India’s highest T20I partnership and the highest fifth-wicket partnership worldwide.
Personal Touches and Tattoos
Rinku sports a tattoo that reads “God’s Plan, 2:20,” symbolizing the exact time he was picked by KKR in the 2018 auction—a moment that transformed his and his family’s life.
Looking Ahead
As of April 2025, Rinku Singh continues to be a vital asset for KKR and the Indian cricket team. His journey from a modest background to cricketing fame serves as an inspiration to many aspiring cricketers across the nation.