Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has voiced concerns over Team India’s approach to utilizing Rinku Singh’s batting potential. Chopra believes that Rinku Singh, a promising left-handed batsman, has been positioned too low in the batting order. Rather than slotting him at number six, Chopra suggests that Rinku should be given the opportunity to bat at number four, where he could have a greater impact.
“Are we being fair to Rinku Singh? It’s an important question,” Chopra commented on his YouTube channel. He pointed out that Rinku has consistently delivered whenever he’s had the chance to bat up the order or during the powerplay. “He’s shown his ability to score runs when given more time at the crease, especially in pressure situations.”
A Consistent Performer in Pressure Situations
Chopra emphasized Rinku’s reliability, noting his knack for scoring crucial runs and his impressive strike rate. Which have made him a valuable asset for India. “Every time he’s had the opportunity, he’s scored a half-century with a strong strike rate. He’s proven he can rise to the occasion,” Chopra added.
Rinku Singh has amassed 490 runs in T20Is with an impressive strike rate of 173.14 across 20 innings. According to Chopra, a change in the batting lineup could better showcase Rinku’s skills. He proposed moving Tilak Varma to number six and promoting Rinku to number four. Allowing Rinku more time to settle and influence the game.
“I feel he could have been promoted to No. 4 in Durban, and even throughout this series, with Tilak Varma moved down to No. 6,”. Chopra suggested. He acknowledged Rinku’s ability as a finisher but argued that his strengths go beyond that role.
Chopra also distinguished Rinku’s playing style from that of typical power-hitters like Andre Russell or Hardik Pandya, pointing out that Rinku relies more on timing than brute force. “He can finish games, but he’s not just a finisher. Rinku’s style is about reading the game and timing his shots, rather than muscling the ball. He’s not Andre Russell or Hardik Pandya,” Chopra concluded.
By advocating for a higher batting position, Chopra is hopeful that Rinku Singh can be positioned for even greater success with Team India.
