NEW DELHI: Indian cricketer Rinku Singh was seen arriving at Kolkata airport on Saturday morning, just hours after performing the last rites of his father. He has joined the Indian team ahead of their must-win World Cup T20 clash against the West Indies on Sunday.
Rinku’s father, Khanchand Singh, passed away on Friday morning at a hospital in Greater Noida after battling fourth-stage cancer. He was 60. His funeral was held in Aligarh, where a large number of people gathered to pay their respects.
A heartbroken Rinku carried his father’s mortal remains during the funeral procession.
Rinku, who is part of India’s T20 World Cup squad, had rushed back home after India’s first Super Eight match against South Africa when his father’s health worsened.
Despite the personal tragedy, he has now rejoined the squad. He did not play in the previous match against Zimbabwe but could feature at Eden Gardens, which is also his IPL home ground.
Condolences poured in from across the cricketing world. BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla said, “The news of Rinku Singh’s father’s passing is very heartbreaking. He had been ill for a year… Rinku is also very upset… This is very sad… I pay my tributes to him.”
Former cricketer Yuvraj Singh posted, “Heartbreaking news to hear of the passing of Rinku’s father. In moments like these, no words feel enough. Standing in solidarity with you and your family during this difficult time. May you find strength and courage in the love that surrounds you.”
Harbhajan Singh also expressed his grief, offering prayers and strength to Rinku and his family during this difficult time.
