Will Rinku Singh get a chance to feature in India's playing XI in ODI series against South Africa? KL Rahul gives big update

In less than a year, Rinku Singh has undergone a phenomenal transformation, evolving from a budding cricketer to one of the most talked-about talents in the sport. After proving his batting might in the T20I format, Rinku earned a maiden call-up in India's ODI fold for the upcoming series against South Africa which is set to start from December 17. Rinku's recent batting exploits came in the second T20I against South Africa where he dazzled with an unbeaten 68. However, his effort went in vain as South Africa ended up winning the match by seven runs via DLS method in a rain-truncated game.

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Meanwhile, right ahead of the first ODI against South Africa, India's ODI captain KL Rahul gave a massive update on Rinku's ODI debut.  

In the pre-match press conference on Saturday, December 16, Rahul said,"Watching Rinku Singh in the IPL, the calmness that he has shown it is very refreshing. In the T20I format, he has performed well. He will get his opportunity even in the ODI series."

Notably, the 26-year-old has been delivering consistently high-quality performances in List A cricket as well. Demonstrating his ability to adjust to the varying rhythms of the game, he has played innings tailored to the specific pace of each format. In tournaments like the Vijay Hazare and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, he boasts an impressive average of over 40. In the One Day format, he has amassed 1108 runs across 40 matches. His prowess is even more pronounced in T20s, where he has an even higher average, having scored 924 runs in 38 matches.

Captaincy motivation

“When you are representing India, it is a great opportunity to be valued. It is not difficult to be motivated. A lot of new faces and they will be motivated. It is just like any other series. It is a great challenge to play South Africa in their home series,” Rahul said.

On batting order

“My focus is on this series. I will be batting in the middle order. I would be happy to take that role up in Tests. I am happy in doing new roles. I want to play as many games as I can. I have missed a lot of cricket due to injuries,” Rahul added.

ODI mantra

“I don't think a lot will change as to how we want to play ODI cricket. There are few new faces. To expect them to go and play a role like what Rohit and Virat did, it will be too soon. You have to give them time and make them comfortable. How we played in the World Cup was exciting. We need to figure what works for us in these conditions. I have to give them the confidence that they are comfortable and they can enjoy the game,” Rahul stated.

On India's inexperienced bowling attack

“They have not played a lot of international cricket. They have had exposure of the IPL. They have been able to handle pressure in whatever cricket they have played. I do not look at them as an inexperienced bowling line-up. Arshdeep and Mukesh have done well and have been doing well for a long time. Avesh has also played a lot of cricket. They will be keen to get this opportunity,” Rahul concluded

India’s squad for three ODIs: Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sai Sudharsan, Tilak Varma, Rajat Patidar, Rinku Singh, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (C)(wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mukesh Kumar, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Akash Deep.

The Schedule

1st ODI – December 17, 2023 at 1:30 PM IST in New Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg

2nd ODI – December 19, 2023 at 4:30 PM IST in St George’s Park, Gqeberha

3rd ODI – December 21, 2023 at 4:30 PM IST in Boland Park, Paarl

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