Lucknow: After guiding the Meerut Mavericks to victory in the Uttar Pradesh T20 League earlier this year, Rinku Singh has been appointed captain of the Uttar Pradesh cricket team for the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy, starting Saturday.
A Proven Leader and Performer
Rinku’s leadership credentials were on display during the Uttar Pradesh T20 League, where he captained the Meerut Mavericks for the first time and led them to the championship title. His all-round performance in the tournament was remarkable. Rinku amassed 210 runs, including a blistering 12-ball 39, at a strike rate of 161.54, smashing 15 fours and 11 sixes. He also proved effective with the ball, picking up seven wickets at an average of 11.71, including a sensational three-wicket over.
Recognizing his potential as a leader, the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association, led by the selection committee chaired by Praveen Kumar, decided it was time for Rinku to take on greater responsibility. He succeeds Bhuvneshwar Kumar as the team’s captain.
Focus on Leadership and Development
Reflecting on his leadership experience, Rinku said, “Leading Meerut Mavericks was a big opportunity for me, and I’m happy I delivered. Captaincy allowed me to learn many new things, and I truly enjoyed it.”
Rinku emphasized his dedication to developing as an all-rounder, saying, “Modern cricket demands a complete package – someone who can bat, bowl, and field. I’ve been working on my bowling and am ready to take on this bigger role for Uttar Pradesh.”
Eyeing More Glory
Rinku’s stellar performances in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where he was Uttar Pradesh’s leading run-scorer with 277 runs at a strike rate of 152.19, and his contributions in the Ranji Trophy, where he scored 157 runs in the first half, have bolstered his confidence. Now, his focus is on reclaiming the Vijay Hazare Trophy, which Uttar Pradesh last won in 2015-16.
“I’m committed to helping Uttar Pradesh regain the trophy. While there’s talk about captaincy in the IPL, my sole focus right now is on this challenge,” Rinku stated, brushing aside speculation about leading the Kolkata Knight Riders in the upcoming IPL season.
A Journey of Resilience and Success
Rinku’s rise has been a story of determination and hard work. Coming from a financially struggling family, his fortunes turned when Kolkata Knight Riders secured him for ₹80 lakh in the IPL 2018 auction. He became a key player for KKR, emerging as their top scorer in the 2022 season with 474 runs at a strike rate of 149.52.
In domestic cricket, Rinku has been equally prolific. He played a crucial role in Uttar Pradesh’s 2018-19 Ranji Trophy campaign, scoring 953 runs at an average of 105.88, and continued his dominance in the 2021-22 Vijay Hazare Trophy, notching up four fifties and a century in six innings.
International Success
Rinku made his T20I debut in 2023 and quickly established himself as a reliable finisher. His ODI debut later that year was also impressive, as he showcased his part-time off-spin skills by taking a wicket in his first over.
Looking Ahead
Reflecting on his journey, Rinku said, “When I hit five consecutive sixes in the IPL, I never imagined it would be a turning point in my career. I believe in working hard and letting destiny take its course. If something is meant for me, it will come my way.”
With his leadership skills, versatility, and determination, Rinku Singh is poised to take Uttar Pradesh cricket to new heights.
