Khanchand Singh, father of Indian cricketer Rinku Singh, passed away on Friday after courageously battling Stage 4 cancer for nearly a year.
Rinku Singh’s father, Khanchand Singh, passed away on Friday following a prolonged battle with Stage 4 cancer. The news was shared by former India spinner Harbhajan Singh, who extended his heartfelt condolences and prayers to the grieving family. Khanchand Singh had been receiving treatment at Yatharth Hospital in Greater Noida, but his health deteriorated earlier this week, leading to him being placed on ventilator support.
The 28-year-old India all-rounder had stepped away from the national camp ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 clash against Zimbabwe at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai to be by his father’s side. Although Rinku rejoined the squad before the match, he did not feature in the playing XI, with Sanju Samson getting the nod instead.
Hindustan Times Digital has learned that Rinku has returned to his hometown to stand by his family during this challenging period. He is likely to rejoin the squad ahead of the final Super 8 fixture against the West Indies.
Harbhajan Singh shared an emotional message on social media, acknowledging that while Rinku Singh continues to honor his commitments at the T20 World Cup, this is an extremely trying phase for him and his family.
“I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Shri Khanchand Singh Ji, father of Rinku Singh. It is a heartbreaking moment for the entire family, especially as Rinku carries on with his duties during the T20 World Cup,” Harbhajan posted on X.
He further conveyed his condolences, writing, “My sincere prayers and thoughts are with Rinku and his loved ones. May Waheguru bless the departed soul with eternal peace and provide strength and courage to the family in this time of grief.”
In a heartfelt gesture last year, Rinku surprised his father with a brand-new Kawasaki Ninja motorcycle valued at ₹3.19 lakh, a gift that reflected both gratitude and pride.
What unfolded in the Zimbabwe clash?
Although Rinku was not included in the starting XI against Zimbabwe, he still contributed on the field. He initially stepped in as a substitute fielder for Suryakumar Yadav and later returned to the ground when Abhishek Sharma briefly went off for medical attention.
The encounter concluded with a commanding 72-run victory for India. Batting first, the hosts piled up an imposing 256/4 in their 20 overs, powered by fluent half-centuries from Abhishek Sharma and Hardik Pandya. In response, Zimbabwe managed 184/6, with Arshdeep Singh claiming three crucial wickets. Brian Bennett stood out for the visitors, remaining unbeaten on 97 in a valiant effort.
India are set to face the West Indies in a do-or-die, virtual quarter-final clash on Sunday, March 1, at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. The team that emerges victorious will secure a coveted spot in the semi-finals.
