In a spectacular display during the second T20I against Australia, newcomer Rinku Singh showcased a striking resemblance to legendary finisher MS Dhoni, earning high praise from India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav. Despite facing fewer deliveries than Suryakumar, Rinku outscored him with an impressive strike rate of 344.44, leaving a lasting impact on the five-match series.
In his sixth international appearance for India at Visakhapatnam, Rinku executed a Dhoni-like finishing role, steering India to a record chase against the reigning world champions. Although his last-ball six didn’t officially count in the thrilling victory, Rinku’s 14-ball 22 set the stage for India’s success. The Kolkata Knight Riders’ star continued his explosive form with a quickfire 31 off 9 balls, contributing significantly to India’s 44-run win in Thiruvananthapuram.
Suryakumar Yadav, acknowledging Rinku’s composure under pressure, drew parallels with the iconic MS Dhoni during the post-match presentation. The India T20I skipper lauded Rinku’s brilliance, stating, “When I saw Rinku come in to bat in the last game, the composure he showed was brilliant. It reminded me of someone. Everyone knows the answer.”
Rinku Singh has emerged as a powerhouse, scoring 128 runs in four T20I innings with an exceptional strike rate of 216.94. His unbeaten streak in the last three innings, coupled with twelve fours and nine sixes, places him in a league of his own among India’s middle-order batsmen. Notably, Rinku boasts the highest strike rate (216.94) among India’s stars batting in the 5th to 7th positions since the 2022 World Cup, surpassing established names like Axar Patel, Tilak Varma, and Hardik Pandya.
Reflecting on his role, Rinku expressed calmness in batting positions 5 to 7, emphasizing his adaptability to varying scenarios. His disciplined training, following the advice of VVS Laxman, has molded him into a formidable force, showcasing his ability to shine in pressure situations. As Rinku Singh continues to make waves in international cricket, his Dhoni-esque finesse promises exciting prospects for India’s middle order.
