Rinku Singh Reflects on Challenging IPL Season, KKR Secures Playoff Spot

Kolkata Knight Riders' Rinku Singh has endured a challenging season in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL), scoring only 168 runs in 12 matches compared to his impressive 474-run tally last year. Despite being touted as a potential candidate for India's T20 World Cup squad, Rinku was only selected as one of four traveling reserves.

Reflecting on his form, Rinku acknowledged, "I haven't had enough opportunities to bat, and even when I did, I couldn't perform as well as I wanted for the team. I've been experiencing some ups and downs, but I'm trying to stay mentally strong and calm. I keep believing in myself and hope to improve in the next match. I don't dwell on the past and focus on the present."

In KKR's recent match against Mumbai Indians (MI), Rinku played a brief but impactful innings of 20 runs off 12 balls, contributing to his team's 18-run victory in a rain-affected encounter. After rain delayed the toss and start of play, the game was reduced to 16 overs per side. KKR posted 157-7, with Venkatesh Iyer top-scoring with 42 off 21 balls.

In response, MI finished on 139-8, with Tilak Varma scoring a quickfire 32 off 17 balls before falling to fast bowler Harshit Rana, who took two wickets in the final over. Varun Chakravarthy and Andre Russell also claimed two wickets each, securing KKR's playoff berth.

KKR captain Shreyas Iyer praised his team's performance, saying, "We were playing fantastic cricket, and the boys have taken responsibility. There have been many game-changers. The boys have shown great attitude, and it was on display today. We have a mindset to win from any situation."

With their victory, KKR secured a top-two finish, giving them two chances to qualify for the playoffs.

Tags: #KKR, #RinkuSingh, #IPL2023, #T20WorldCup, #Cricket