Rinku Singh Proves He's More Than Just a T20 Star
In a stunning display of versatility and grit, Rinku Singh played a career-defining innings of 176 runs off 247 balls to steer Uttar Pradesh to a vital first-innings lead against a formidable Tamil Nadu side in the Ranji Trophy. The match, held in Coimbatore, saw UP secure the lead on Day 4, a feat that seemed improbable when Rinku arrived at the crease.
A Masterclass in Building an Innings
Walking in with his team in a precarious position at 149/3, and later seeing the score slip to 191/5, Rinku Singh faced a monumental task. Uttar Pradesh was still trailing by a massive 264 runs in response to Tamil Nadu's first-innings total of 455. Undeterred, the left-hander anchored the innings with remarkable composure, showcasing a side of his game often overshadowed by his explosive T20 reputation.
He forged crucial partnerships with the lower order, demonstrating an astute understanding of the game's situation. Rinku added 104 runs with Shivam Mavi for the sixth wicket, followed by stands of 53, 59, and 36 runs with the tail-enders. In each partnership, he was the dominant force, expertly shielding his partners while also knowing when to accelerate.
Calculated Aggression and Emotional Release
The climax of his innings was a testament to his calculated approach. When Kartik Yadav fell as the eighth wicket, UP still needed 48 runs to take the lead. Rinku immediately switched gears, unleashing an array of innovative shots, including ramps over the slip cordon and a couple of sixes off seamer Sonu Yadav. This was not reckless hitting but a strategic assault to secure the lead.
His emotions finally spilled over after he was dismissed as the ninth batter, with UP still 12 runs behind. From the dressing room, he passionately urged the final pair, Aaqib Khan and Kunal Tyagi, screaming "Push..push..do aajayaga…" His faith was rewarded as the last-wicket pair successfully secured the all-important first-innings lead, much to his visible relief.
Rinku's knock was a masterclass in handling spin, as he scored 79 runs off 117 deliveries faced from Tamil Nadu's main threats, spinners R Sai Kishore and P Vidyuth. He respected the good deliveries but never let them dictate the terms of the game.
A Silent Performer with a Loud Bat
This innings further solidifies Rinku Singh's impressive first-class record, where he now boasts a staggering average of 59.30. Despite his global fame as a T20 finisher, built on moments like hitting five sixes in an IPL over, his consistency in the longer format has been remarkable. His performance did not go unnoticed, with national selector Pragyan Ojha in attendance.
True to his character, Rinku remained silent off the field, refusing media interviews even after his career-best score. He lets his bat do the talking, a rare trait in an era of heavy player promotion. This knock, following an unbeaten 165 against Andhra earlier in the season, sends a powerful message to the national selectors about his all-format capabilities.
Brief scores: Tamil Nadu 455 & 103/2 drew with Uttar Pradesh 460 (Rinku Singh 176; P Vidyuth 4/73, R Sai Kishore 3/99).
