SA vs IND: Is Rinku Singh getting the opportunity he deserves? Ex opener raises concerns
Xtra Time Web Desk: Cricketer-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra has raised questions over India's batting strategy with Rinku Singh, following India's commanding 61-run win over South Africa in the first T20I on November 8. Despite India’s impressive total of 202, Chopra expressed concern about Rinku’s batting position, as he was sent in at No. 6 and faced just 10 balls, scoring 11 runs.
Rinku, who has been a standout player since his T20I debut, has amassed 490 runs in 27 matches at an impressive average of 54.44. Yet, recent matches have seen him batting late in the order, limiting his opportunities to make a significant impact. Given his potential, some believe Rinku should be promoted up the order to maximize his influence in the innings.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra said that the southpaw has scored runs whenever he has been sent up the order.
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"Are we being fair to Rinku? It's a very important question. Why am I asking this question? You kept him in the team first, he is your original choice player. He was in your team against Bangladesh and before that as well. Whenever you have sent him up the order or he has got to bat in the powerplay, he has scored runs every time," said Chopra.
Why don't you send Rinku at No.4?
Aakash Chopra highlighted Rinku Singh's potential to play a more significant role in India's batting lineup after the first T20I win over South Africa. Calling Rinku a "crisis man" for India, Chopra argued that the 27-year-old's ability to score under pressure warrants a promotion up the order. "He has scored a half-century every time. He has emerged as a crisis man... So this was that opportunity. Why don't you send him at No. 4? What is the reason that you only send Rinku down the order, always at No. 6?" Chopra questioned.
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Chopra further emphasized that Rinku isn't limited to the finisher role and could thrive if given more responsibility. Unlike typical power-hitters like Andre Russell and Hardik Pandya, Rinku's game involves a blend of calculated hitting and skillful shot-making. "He is hitting sixes but he is not someone who muscles the ball. He is not Andre Russell and he is not Hardik Pandya as well," he noted.
India will have the chance to re-evaluate Rinku’s role in the second T20I on November 10, where many will be watching to see if he gets a chance higher up the batting order.
