Friday morning brought a somber silence to the life of Rinku Singh, who rose from the lanes of Aligarh to don Team India's jersey, a silence no cheer or stadium applause could fill. His father, Khan Chand Singh, has departed from this world.
Amidst the hums of ventilators in Greater Noida's Yatharth Hospital ICU, a father fiercely battled life. After a prolonged fight with advanced liver cancer, he took his final breath early Friday morning. His condition had been deteriorating since his hospitalization on February 21st.
Rooted in Struggles, Soaring in Dreams
Khan Chand Singh never sought headlines. He nurtured his son's dreams away from the camera's gaze, battling adversity silently. Whether it was lugging gas cylinders or holding minor jobs, he never allowed the cricket bat to slip from his son's hands.
When Rinku returned late from practice, his father would open the door with a knowing smile. Perhaps he always knew – this boy was destined to play for the nation.
This news arrived amidst the grandeur of the T20 World Cup. On one side, the nation's hopes; on the other, a father's final battle. Rinku persisted on the field, for it may have been his father's wish.
The passing of his father has descended like an overwhelming grief upon Rinku and his family. The cricket world has offered condolences during this challenging time.
Virat Kohli expressed deep sorrow over Rinku's father's demise, saying, 'I am deeply saddened by the news of Rinku's father's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult period. May the eternal blessings of the Almighty give you strength. ॐ Shanti.'
Rajeev Shukla, Vice President of the BCCI, wrote, 'The news of cricketer Rinku Singh's father Mr. Khan Chand Singh's passing is deeply saddening. My heartfelt condolences are with Rinku Singh and his entire family during this challenging time. May the Almighty grant the departed soul a place at His feet and give strength to the bereaved family to endure this immense grief. ॐ.'
Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh expressed, 'The news of Rinku Singh's father Mr. Khan Chand Singh's passing brings deep sorrow. This period is profoundly difficult for Rinku and his family, especially as he fulfills his responsibilities during the T20 World Cup. My heartfelt sympathies and prayers are with them. May Waheguru grant eternal peace to the departed soul and give strength and courage to the bereaved family.'
IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal also shared his deep sorrow over Rinku Singh's father's passing. He remarked, 'The news of Rinku Singh's father's untimely demise is saddening. My heartfelt condolences are with Rinku and his whole family. I pray Rinku fulfills all his father's dreams and continues to bring glory to India.'
Former cricketer Yuvraj Singh stated, 'Hearing the news of Rinku's father's passing is deeply distressing. Words are scarce at such times. I stand with you and your family during this difficult phase. May you find strength and courage in the love surrounding you.'
Rinku Singh's cricket journey has been fraught with challenges. Coming from a modest family in Aligarh, his father's significant contribution to reaching this point is widely acknowledged. Despite difficult circumstances, the family fully supported his cricket career.
