India batter Rinku Singh has left the Indian camp and returned home due to a family emergency. India Today has learnt that Rinku’s father, Khanchand Singh, is in a serious condition and has been admitted to a local hospital in Greater Noida.

Rinku travelled with the Indian team to Chennai on Monday, February 23, a day after India’s Super 8 clash. Sources told India Today that the left-hander left Chennai early on Tuesday morning to attend to his father, who is on life support (a ventilator).

He is unlikely to play the team’s match against Zimbabwe on February 26. Rinku was unavailable for practice on Tuesday evening owing to the development.

INDIA FACE ZIMBABWE IN AHMEDABAD

Rinku’s forced exit from the team comes at a crucial time. After losing to South Africa in their first Super 8 match, India are facing the threat of an early exit from the tournament. India are set to play a tricky Zimbabwe side, which downed former champions Australia and Sri Lanka in the group stage to qualify for the Super 8.

The Sikandar Raza-led side lost to the West Indies in their first Super 8 match and will be looking to improve their record in their next game.

In case Rinku is not available for the match, India can directly slot in Axar Patel for his position. The Indian vice-captain did not play against South Africa, a decision by the team management that was heavily criticised by experts and fans alike.

As things stand, India have to win both of their games, by heavy margin, if they want to qualify for the semi-final of the T20 World Cup 2026.

– Ends