Indiais all set to face England in the second semi-final clash of the 2026 T20 World Cup on Thursday, March 5th. A tournament-defining match is on the cards, and players are preparing their best. While Indian players need to keep their morale high at this time, Indian middle-order batter Rinku Singh is going through a tough time.
The 28-year-old batter lost his father on February 27th due to stage four liver cancer, just before the last Super Eight match against the West Indies. However, he kept his pride high, did the last rites for his father, and joined the training camp ahead of the clash. To pursue this kind of act, one needs to be emotionally controlled, especially when one's family needs one in such times. This shows a lot about Rinku Singh’s character and his love for the game.
Also Read: India vs England Semi-Final: Could Sanju Samson Be Banned for Religious Gesture? ICC Rules Explained
Now, ahead of the semi-final clash against England, an official video has been posted by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on their Instagram handle, where the Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir was seen taking a huddle along with all other staff and players. Gambhir showed his empathy towards Rinku Singh and praised the batter for his duty and his courageous act. He also assured him that the entire team is with him in this tough time.
In the video posted by the BCCI, Gambhir said:
“Guys, before I start, Rinku, it takes a lot of character to come and join the team. Remember one thing, you are not alone, the whole team is standing next to you during this hour, so stay strong.”
During their must-win Super Eight clash against the West Indies, Gambhir had his final huddle to motivate the Indian team players and keep their morale high, despite the pressure.
Gambhir further added:
“Guys, there's got to be pressure. One thing is very clear, make sure that we don't hide away from the pressure. We embrace it, we face it and if anytime we feel we are under pressure, make sure we take the positive route. Enjoy playing this game, this is what you play this game for, this sport for, this is what you've played all your life.”
“Games like this at home, knockout kind of a game, so make sure we go out there excited, not any under pressure. Anytime for next 40 overs, if you feel the pressure, make sure we take the positive route. Okay, be brave, be courageous, enjoy it, enjoy playing for the country and most importantly, enjoy playing for each other.”
Watch the video here:
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Team India (@indiancricketteam)
Sanju Samson held his nerve and delivered a knock of the highest order, smashing an unbeaten 97 runs to seal a victory for the team against the West Indies. At one stage, the team was struggling, but Samson’s consistent bashing kept the scoreboard ticking, and a good cameo from Tilak Varma removed the pressure.
This will be the second consecutive time India will be facing England in the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup. Last time they faced each other in the 2024 edition, and India won that match by 68 runs.
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