IPL 2025: Rinku Singh reveals his preferred team after KKR
Rinku Singh, a key figure in the Kolkata Knight Riders's (KKR) lineup, has expressed his interest in joining Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) if KKR doesn't retain him. This revelation comes ahead of the highly anticipated Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction. Despite his significant role in KKR's success in recent seasons, Rinku's future with the franchise remains uncertain. Here are further details.
Rinku's admiration for Kohli and RCB
Rinku has openly expressed his admiration for Virat Kohli and RCB. When asked about his preferred team if KKR decides not to retain him, he told Sports Tak, "RCB, because Virat Kohli is there." This statement underscores Rinku's respect for Kohli as well as his desire to continue playing in the IPL.
Rinku's bond with Kohli and IPL performance
Rinku shares a close relationship with Kohli, which was evident when he requested another bat from him after his previous one broke. Despite initial reluctance, Kohli eventually gifted Rinku a new bat. This incident highlights their professional camaraderie. Rinku rose to prominence during the 2023 IPL season, becoming KKR's top run-scorer and delivering an exceptional performance against Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad.
Rinku international debut and future aspirations
Following his standout IPL season, Rinku made his debut for India in white-ball cricket during the Ireland series in August. Since then, he has featured in two ODIs and 23 T20Is. At just 26 years old, Rinku remains a crucial player for KKR and is expected to be retained by the Kolkata-based franchise ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction.
Rinku's response to Duleep Trophy snub
Despite being a key member of India's T20I squad and listed among the reserves for the T20 World Cup in June, Rinku was not included in the main squad. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar expressed regret over this decision. Recently, when BCCI announced squads for the Duleep Trophy without Rinku's name, he maintained a positive outlook on his exclusion. "I wasn't selected because I didn't play that well (in Ranji Trophy),"he said.
