India batter Rinku Singh has departed the national team’s T20 World Cup 2026 camp in Chennai following the passing of his father, Khanchandra Singh. This comes during a crucial phase of the tournament, with India currently competing in the Super 8 stage. Rinku has travelled to Aligarh to be with his family, and his participation for the remainder of the competition remains uncertain.
Khanchandra Singh died on February 27 after battling stage 4 liver cancer for a prolonged period. He passed away at Yatharth Hospital in Greater Noida, where he had been receiving treatment in recent days as his health worsened.
He had been on ventilator support and undergoing continuous renal therapy as doctors attempted to stabilise his condition. Despite intensive medical care, his health deteriorated rapidly.
Rinku Had Briefly Returned Earlier
Earlier in the week, when his father’s condition turned critical, Rinku had flown home ahead of India’s Super 8 fixture against Zimbabwe at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Although he rejoined the squad before the match, he was not named in the playing XI, with Sanju Samson selected instead.
Following confirmation of his father’s death, the 28-year-old once again left the team camp. According to India Today, he has returned to Aligarh to remain with his family during this difficult time. The final rites will be conducted in Aligarh, and Rinku will attend the funeral.
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Availability In Doubt
While India continue their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign, the personal loss has had a significant impact. Rinku has featured in five matches in the tournament so far, scoring 24 runs in his role as a finisher.
With India set to take on the West Indies in Kolkata in an important encounter, uncertainty surrounds his availability. As of now, there has been no official communication from the BCCI or team management regarding whether he will rejoin the squad for the remaining fixtures.
Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh shared a message of condolence on X.
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“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 and his loved ones. May Waheguru grant eternal peace to the departed soul and give strength and courage to the bereaved family,” he added.
