Former India batting coach Vikram Rathour has expressed strong support for Rinku Singh’s inclusion in India’s Test cricket squad, asserting that the young batsman possesses the technical skills required for the longer format. The 25-year-old left-handed batter, who has until now primarily been known for his contributions in white-ball cricket, especially Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is), has been receiving accolades for his outstanding technique and temperament, qualities essential for success in Test cricket.
Rinku Singh’s cricketing journey with the Indian national team includes two One Day Internationals (ODIs) and 20 T20Is. His role in these games has predominantly been that of a finisher, a position in which he has excelled. He recently participated in the T20I series against Zimbabwe and was also part of the reserves for the T20 World Cup, which India secured in the West Indies last month.
Rinku’s performance in T20Is has made him a mainstay in the Indian squad. His batting statistics are impressive, with a strike rate of 176.27 and an average of 83.2 in 15 innings, amassing a total of 416 runs. Vikram Rathour, whose last assignment as India’s batting coach was the T20 World Cup, believes that these statistics, combined with Rinku’s technical prowess, make a compelling case for his transition to Test cricket. Rathour highlighted Rinku’s first-class cricket average, which stands in the mid-50s, as evidence of his capability to handle the rigors of Test matches.
Notably, Rinku Singh has played 47 first-class matches, accumulating 3,173 runs at an average of 54.7. His first-class record includes seven centuries and 20 half-centuries, showcasing his ability to play long, high-scoring innings. Rathour, while speaking to Press Trust of India (PTI), emphasized Rinku’s commendable technique which he has observed in the nets. “When I see him bat in nets, I can’t find any technical reasons why Rinku cannot be a successful Test batter. I understand he has made his name as a terrific finisher in T20 cricket but if you look at his first-class record, he is averaging in high 50s,” Rathour explained.
Rathour also praised Rinku’s composed demeanor, a vital trait for Test cricket.
. “He is also blessed with a very calm temperament. So all these factors indicate that if given an opportunity, he can develop into a Test cricketer,” he added. The endorsement from a seasoned coach like Rathour underscores the potential that lies in Rinku Singh, possibly paving the way for his debut in the longest format of the game.
In addition to advocating for Rinku Singh, Vikram Rathour also identified Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal as promising talents who could be the next set of all-format players for India. According to Rathour, both young cricketers are well-equipped to handle the challenges across all three formats of the game. “There are many exciting players coming through but these two (Gill and Jaiswal) are equipped to play all three formats for a long time. They are going to be the backbone of Indian batting in years to come,” Rathour remarked.
Shubman Gill has already made a name for himself with his elegant batting style and consistent performances. His ability to adapt to different formats has been widely praised, making him a versatile asset for the team. Meanwhile, Yashasvi Jaiswal, a rising star in Indian cricket, has shown immense potential with his aggressive yet composed batting approach. Both players’ inclusion is seen as part of a broader strategy to ensure the Indian cricket team remains competitive and formidable across all formats in the coming years.
Rinku Singh’s journey has primarily been in the backdrop of more prominent names, but his steadfast performances in domestic and T20 cricket have brought him into the limelight. His transition from a T20 finisher to a potentially reliable Test cricketer could mark a significant milestone in his career. The backing from a former national coach like Rathour could be instrumental in this transition.
As India continues to scout and nurture new talent for its cricketing future, the insights and endorsements from experienced figures in the coaching realm are invaluable. They help not only in identifying potential but also in providing the young cricketers with the necessary guidance and confidence to excel on the international stage.
In conclusion, Vikram Rathour’s endorsement of Rinku Singh for Test cricket is a testament to the young cricketer’s talent and hard work. With the right opportunities and continued support, Rinku Singh could very well become a significant player for India in the Test arena, joining the ranks of other formidable cricketers who have made the successful transition across formats.
