Indian Star Rinku Singh Mourns Father’ Demise Mid-World Cup

New Delhi, February 27, 2026: In a heartbreaking turn of events, India’s star middle-order batter Rinku Singh is mourning the loss of his father, Khanchand Singh, who passed away early Friday morning, February 27, 2026.The tragic news comes at a time when the 28-year-old cricketer is representing the nation in the ongoing ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.

A Brave Battle Against Illness

Khanchand Singh had been battling stage-four liver cancer for over a year. His condition deteriorated significantly in recent days, leading to his admission to the Yatharth Hospital in Greater Noida on February 21. According to hospital officials, he was on ventilator support and receiving renal replacement therapy before breathing his last early Friday morning.

Rinku, known for his resilience on the field, had been balancing his national duties with the emotional weight of his father’s health. He had briefly left the Indian camp in Chennai earlier this week to visit his father in Noida. Despite the personal turmoil, Rinku showed immense character by rejoining the squad ahead of India’s Super 8 clash against Zimbabwe on Thursday.

While he was not part of the playing XI for that match, Rinku was seen on the field as a substitute fielder, embodying the professional commitment he is known for.

From LPG Cylinders to World Cup Dreams

The story of Rinku Singh is often cited as one of the most inspiring “rags-to-riches” tales in modern Indian cricket. Central to that journey was his father, Khanchand Singh.

• The Struggle: For decades, Khanchand worked as an LPG cylinder delivery man in Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh.
• The Support: Despite earning a modest salary and facing immense financial hardships, he ensured Rinku had the resources to pursue his cricketing dreams.
• The Bond: Rinku often shared how his father’s hard work kept the family afloat. In a touching gesture last year, Rinku gifted his father a high-end sports bike, a moment that went viral and highlighted the deep bond between the two.

Tributes from the Cricket Fraternity

As news of the demise spread, the cricketing world united in grief. Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh was among the first to offer his condolences on social media:

“Pained to learn about the demise of Shri Khanchand Singh Ji, father of Rinku Singh. This must be an especially difficult time for Rinku and his family, even as he remains committed to his responsibilities during the T20 World Cup. My heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with him.”

Legendary cricketer Yuvraj Singh also expressed his solidarity, stating that “no words feel enough” during such a difficult time.

Uncertain Future in the Tournament

Rinku has now flown back to his hometown in Aligarh to perform the last rites. His availability for India’s crucial final Super 8 encounter against the West Indies in Kolkata remains uncertain. The team management has reportedly granted him an indefinite break to be with his family, though some reports suggest he may rejoin the squad before the semi-finals should India progress.

The Indian team, currently vying for a spot in the final four, will undoubtedly feel the absence of their “finisher” as they rally around their teammate during this period of immense personal loss.