Sanju Samson played a brilliant unbeaten knock of 97 runs to help India reach the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final. While chasing 196, Samson was not out and played one of the best innings by an Indian in a World Cup run chase.

When the winning runs were scored, Samson fell to his knees in an emotional celebration. The moment showed how important the match-winning performance was for him.

During the match at Eden Gardens, a light-hearted moment happened when Rinku Singh mistakenly walked away with Samson’s bat. The incident happened during India’s innings and quickly went viral on social media. Fans enjoyed this funny moment in an otherwise serious World Cup match.

Watch this funny moment below:

Rinku Singh Mistakenly Walks Away With Sanju Samson Bat.😅 pic.twitter.com/hxPv6rhzhE

— muffatball vikrant (@Vikrant_1589) March 2, 2026

What really happened?

Rinku Singh was not in the playing XI after the arrival of Sanju Samson. During the do-or-die match against West Indies at Eden Gardens, Rinku helped the team as a drinks carrier along with Kuldeep Yadav.

During India’s batting, Rinku gave Samson water and a towel. Samson wiped his sweat, drank the water, and prepared to bat. At that time, Rinku was holding Samson’s bat. When Rinku and Kuldeep moved away, Samson noticed that his bat was missing and called Rinku back to take it. Rinku did not realise he had taken the bat, and the moment created some laughter on the field.

The incident was not done intentionally, but it quickly went viral online.

Also read -'Concentrate on Bowling, Not Reels'-Fans slam Arshdeep Singh after 24-run over in IND vs WI Super 8 match

Earlier in the match, West Indies scored 195/4 in 20 overs after batting first. Roston Chase (40 off 25 balls), Rovman Powell (34* off 19 balls), and Jason Holder (37* off 22 balls) were the main scorers. For India, Jasprit Bumrah took two wickets, while Hardik Pandya and Varun Chakravarthy took one wicket each.

India chased the target and scored 199/5 in 19.2 overs. Sanju Samson remained not out with 97 runs from 50 balls. Tilak Varma also played a useful knock of 27 runs from 15 balls. For the West Indies, Jason Holder and Shamar Joseph took two wickets each, while Akeal Hosein took one wicket.

India is facing two-time champion West Indies in the 52nd match of the T20 World Cup 2026. This match between the two teams is taking place at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. In the Super 8 round, India and the West Indies have each won one match and lost one match so far. For this reason, both teams need a win to make it to the semi-finals. In such a situation, this match is like a knockout for one side. The team that loses will be out of the tournament.

India vs West Indies Super 8 Match Toss Update

Suryakumar Yadav won the toss and decided to bowl first. Explaining his decision, Surya said the surface looks good. This is a chasing ground. Later, the pitch becomes better for batting. Considering the dew factor, chasing the target is the best option. 

See Also: Watch: Sikandar Raza dismisses Aiden Markram for four in ZIM vs SA T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8s

The Indian captain described Kolkata as a wonderful venue. He also praised the crowd. Surya gave an update about the dressing room, saying there is a tense atmosphere. But without it, he said, it wouldn't be fun either. However, everyone in the camp is in a good mood. We corrected everything in the last match. We have come into this match with positive things in mind.

Reason Behind Rinku Singh’s Absence in IND vs WI Super 8 Clash

Rinku Singh was not included in the Indian team's playing XI against Zimbabwe, and Sanju Samson played in that match. Sanju helped India get a fast start. For this reason, Team India retained the same combination and once again left Rinku out. Rinku's personal life has also been in considerable turmoil, as his father recently passed away. Because of this, after the match in Chennai, Rinku returned home and also participated in his father's last rites.

However, the left-handed batter has since returned and joined Team India ahead of the match against the West Indies. The chances of Rinku being played were slim, and indeed, that is what happened.

India’s Playing XI for Super-8 Clash Against West Indies

Sanju Samson(w), Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Hardik Pandya, Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah

A major update arrived related to Rinku Singh ahead of India's much-awaited clash with the West Indies on March 1 at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Rinku went uncertain for the Super 8 phase of the ongoing ICC T20 World Cup 2026 as his father passed away. 

Rinku Singh's father, Khanchandra Singh, passed away after battling stage-4 liver cancer. He was admitted to a hospital in Greater Noida. After reaching Chennai for the India vs Zimbabwe match, Rinku left the national camp to support his family. Though, he joined the team again before the match on February 26.

On the morning of Friday, February 27, the news of Rinku Singh's father's demise broke out. In such a heartbreaking situation, Indian fans are speculating, whether the batter can join the team for their final fixture of the Super 8.

Read More: WI-W vs SL-W, 1st T20I: Head-to-head, pitch report and predicted playing XIs

Will Rinku Singh join the team ahead of the India vs West Indies Super 8 match of the T20 World Cup 2026?

As per the latest reports, Rinku Singh is all set to join the team in Kolkata before the India vs West Indies match on the first day of March. Like the previous match, the upcoming contest will be another do-or-die instance for Suryakumar Yadav and his boys. If the team is able to win the match in Kolkata, then they will confirm a seat for the semi-finals. And, if the West Indies win, then they will cross the Super 8 hurdle.

As of now, after the India vs Zimbabwe, and South Africa vs West Indies matches, the Proteas are top of the points table of Group 1 of Super 8 with 4 points and +2.890 Net Run Rate. West Indies holds the second spot with 2 points and a +1.791 Net Run Rate. Team India, the defending champion and co-host of the T20 World Cup 2026, has the same points as West Indies. But because of the Net Run Rate of -0.100, which is lower than the Caribbean's seam, they are in the third rank on the points table. 

India’s star cricketer Rinku Singh is going through a very difficult time during the T20 World Cup 2026. His father, Khanchand Singh, passed away after battling stage-4 liver cancer. He was admitted to Yatharth Hospital in Greater Noida for several days before his death. Rinku had flown to Chennai after the match against South Africa, but he returned home when his father’s health became critical. The family is in deep shock after the loss.

The Kolkata Knight Riders batter was heartbroken as he performed the last rites of his father in Aligarh. Rinku looked inconsolable as he said his final goodbye to the man who was his biggest support.

In a video that went viral on social media, Rinku was seen crying during the funeral procession. Many people gathered to pay their respects, and police were present at the venue. In the emotional moment, he wiped his tears with his t-shirt, leaving fans deeply moved.

Watch the video here:

अपने पिता के अंतिम संस्कार के बाद,

Rinku Singh का फूट-फूट कर रोने वाला यह वीडियो

हर एक शक्स को रुला गया 😢 pic.twitter.com/UgwNWD1uUr

— Daily Trending News (@DailyTrendingN1) February 27, 2026

Rinku missed the playing XI in Chennai

Rinku Singh was not part of the playing XI in Chennai, but he came on as a substitute fielder. India secured an important 72-run win to keep their semi-final hopes alive in the T20 World Cup 2026.

The 28-year-old from Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, often speaks about his father’s support. His father, Khanchand Singh, worked in gas cylinder distribution and backed Rinku’s cricket dream despite financial problems.

Also read -Watch: Mohammed Siraj shows special support to Rinku Singh amid father’s death after IND vs ZIM Super 8 match

Form and Upcoming Crucial Match

Rinku has had a quiet tournament so far. He has scored 24 runs in five innings and remained not out twice. In 2026, he played 10 T20 internationals and scored 115 runs, which is below his usual standard.

India’s next match is a must-win game against the West Indies in Kolkata on Sunday. It is like a quarter-final for the team. Rinku’s availability for the match is still uncertain as he deals with his personal loss.

Rinku Singh’s International Career Statistics

Star Indian cricketer Rinku Singh has played only a few matches in ODIs but has shown good promise. In 2 ODI matches, he has scored 55 runs with an average of 27.50 and a strike rate of 134.14. His highest ODI score is 38 runs.

In T20 International cricket, Rinku has been more impressive. In 45 T20I matches, he has scored 665 runs at an average of 39.11 and a strike rate of 155.73. His best score is 69* runs. He has hit 55 fours and 38 sixes in the shortest format, showing his aggressive batting style.

India’s star cricketer Rinku Singh is going through a period of deep grief during the T20 World Cup 2026. Today, Rinku’s father, Khanchand Singh, passed away, who was battling with stage-4 liver cancer. He had been hospitalized for several days and died at Yatharth Hospital in Greater Noida. Rinku came home to visit his father on Tuesday. After the match against South Africa, he flew straight to Chennai from Ahmedabad, but his father's health deteriorated, forcing him to return home. The family is in shock due to the sudden demise of their father and is returning to their residence.

Rinku Singh's father has been fighting cancer for the past year. Despite having been treated for a while, he was admitted to Yatharth Hospital in Noida after complaining of stomach pain. Khanchand Singh had been on ventilator support and undergoing kidney replacement therapy for the past two or three days while being treated by the staff. On Friday morning, he passed away.

See Also: Watch: Heartbreaking news!! Star India player's father passes away during T20 World Cup 2026

Rinku Singh's father had a significant impact on his son's cricket career. He worked tirelessly to fulfill his son's dream. Khanchand struggled to make ends meet, but he persevered when Rinku was working hard to become a cricketer. His biggest dream was to see his son return home with the 2026 T20 World Cup trophy. Before the World Cup, he had even urged Rinku to win the trophy. However, Rinku's father has passed away. His sudden demise has saddened the entire cricketing world. Virat Kohli has also expressed his condolences at this time of grief.

Virat Kohli shared a heartfelt message for Rinku Singh

Rinku Singh has lost his strongest support system today, but the entire nation stands by him. Former Indian captain and legendary batter Virat Kohli also conveyed his condolences and encouraged him to stay strong during this difficult time.

"Deeply saddened by the news of Rinku’s father’s demise. My heartfelt prayers and thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time. May you always find strength in his eternal blessings. Om Shanti. @rinkusingh235," Virat Kohli wrote on X.

Deeply saddened by the news of Rinku’s father’s demise. My heartfelt prayers and thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time. May you always find strength in his eternal blessings. Om Shanti. 🙏 @rinkusingh235

— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) February 27, 2026

BCCI has also expressed grief over the demise of Rinku Singh's father. Secretary Devjit Saikia conveyed the board's condolences and also informed that Rinku will not be joining Team India for the departure to Kolkata this afternoon. In such a situation, Rinku is unlikely to be available for the Super-8 match against West Indies on March 1.

India entered the T20 World Cup 2026 in outstanding form, carrying strong momentum under captain Suryakumar Yadav. The team has remained unbeaten in T20I series ever since he took the reins and given the team renewed confidence. They won all of their group matches (four wins) and played with consistent balance and authority. However, the Super 8 stage was a low point, as they lost to South Africa by 76 runs. That loss created a major issue with their qualification and they now have very little margin for error.

There has been an increase in the scrutiny of individual performances and many players who have shown difficulty consistently performing at this tournament have generated criticism from fans and analysts. With high standards and the highest expectations, there are many discussions around individual accountability surging through the community. The focus is shifting from the current tournament to changes that may occur in the future. This article will examine three players on the Indian roster whose performances have raised a red flag and could be cut from the roster after the conclusion of the T20 World Cup.

Here are 3 Indian players who would be dropped after T20 WC;

3. Washington Sundar

Washington Sundar faced heavy criticism from fans and analysts following his underwhelming display against South Africa. Questions were also raised about the team management’s decision to include him ahead of vice captain Axar Patel, who has consistently delivered match winning performances with both bat and ball. Many observers felt the selection call was risky, especially given Axar’s proven track record in high pressure situations. The move sparked debate about team balance and whether India had overlooked experience in a crucial Super 8 encounter.

Sundar was drafted into the playing eleven primarily to counter South Africa’s left handed batters. However, the strategy failed to produce the desired impact. Commentators such as Sanjay Manjrekar and Aakash Chopra pointed out that the tactical switch did not provide any clear advantage. Sundar conceded 17 runs in his two overs and later managed only 11 runs off 11 deliveries. His modest contributions with both bat and ball further fueled criticism surrounding the selection decision and overall match planning.

See Also: T20 World Cup 2026: Was Jasprit Bumrah underused in India’s defeat to South Africa?

2. Rinku Singh

Rinku Singh’s form into the tournament thus far has been disappointing, with few chances to make a significant impact. The management has played him exclusively in the lower middle order, meaning he has no way of helping the team win games. Rinku has not batted above number six during the tournament, and he was pushed down to number eight in the previous game against South Africa. This consistent demotion is concerning regarding whether Rinku’s role is maximized properly in the current team.

The 28-year-old has played in all five of India’s matches in the 20-team tournament; he has only scored 24 runs off of 29 balls. Rinku’s average is eight; his strike rate is 82.76, indicating a poor run of form with the bat. Highly rated as a finisher, Rinku’s talents are poorly utilized while batting in his current position. Due to Rinku’s lack of production and the possibility that he may be unable to adjust to world-class pace bowling, the team may look at other options before making an all-around addition to balance out their squad after the tournament.

1. Sanju Samson

Sanju Samson shared a promising stand with Abhishek Sharma, but the partnership failed to flourish for long. Over the past several months, the wicketkeeper batter has struggled to find stability in his role. Since the Asia Cup last September, he has been frequently shifted across the batting order, moving from the lower middle order to higher positions. In the series against New Zealand prior to the T20 World Cup, he was asked to open the innings again, reflecting the team management’s continued experimentation with his role.

However, the constant reshuffling appeared to affect his rhythm and confidence. During the New Zealand series, Samson managed just 46 runs across five innings, eventually losing his opening spot to Ishan Kishan. He returned to the playing eleven against Namibia in the group stage when Abhishek was unwell. Although he struck a quick 22 off eight deliveries, he once again failed to convert a lively start into a meaningful contribution, raising further concerns about his consistency and defined position.

Khanchand Singh, father of star Indian cricketer Rinku Singh, passed away during treatment at Yatharth Hospital - Greater Noida on Friday morning, as per reports. He had been unwell for a long time, and his condition worsened in recent days.

Rinku’s father was on ventilator support at the hospital in Greater Noida and was in critical condition, which prompted the batter to return home earlier this week. Later, Rinku rejoined the Indian squad ahead of the Super Eight clash against Zimbabwe. However, he was not included in the playing XI but participated in the match as a substitute fielder.

After the match against Zimbabwe, the emotional moment between Mohammed Siraj and Rinku Singh quickly went viral on social media. The video showing Siraj placing his hand on Rinku’s shoulder as a sign of silent support during a difficult time was widely shared by fans. The gesture reflected deep emotional understanding and respect between the two cricketers.

Watch the video here:

The way Mohammed Siraj consoles Rinku Singh with his hand on his shoulder shows silent support — he truly knows the pain of losing a father.

Stay strong, Rinku Singh. 🙏💔 pic.twitter.com/ZjtZmEpkB2

— Sonu (@Cricket_live247) February 27, 2026

Rinku Singh Returns Home After Father’s Death

After the news of his father’s passing, Rinku Singh flew back to Delhi to be with his family. According to BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia, Rinku left Chennai around 5 AM. His father’s funeral will be held in Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh.

The cricketing community expressed deep sadness after the news broke. Officials from the Board of Control for Cricket in India also shared their condolences for Rinku and his family during this difficult time.

Also read -Rinku Singh slams fiery century in Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26

Cricket Fraternity Shows Support

Mohammed Siraj, who himself lost his father in the past, showed emotional support to Rinku. Many fans believe Siraj understands Rinku’s pain very well. His small but meaningful gesture showed strong emotional support.

Such moments remind fans that cricket is not only about winning or losing. Players also stand together during personal loss, showing true sportsmanship.

Siraj’s father, Mohammed Ghouse, wanted to watch his son play for India. During the Australia tour, Siraj stayed back to fulfil his father’s dream. He later took his first five-wicket haul in the Gabba Test and said he played under pressure but wanted to make his father proud.

Besides Siraj, BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla condoled the demise of the cricketer's father via a social media post.

"The news of the passing of cricketer Rinku Singh’s father, Shri Khanchand Singh, is deeply saddening. In this difficult time, my heartfelt condolences are with Rinku Singh and his entire family. May God give strength to the bereaved family to bear this immense loss," Shukla shared on X.

BCCI president Mithun Mahnas also expressed his sadness at Rinku's adversity.

"Deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Rinku Singh’s father. My heartfelt condolences to Rinku and his family in this difficult time. May lord Shiva give him the strength to stay strong," he posted on X.

Rinku Singh’s International Career Statistics

Star Indian cricketer Rinku Singh has played only a few matches in ODIs but has shown good promise. In 2 ODI matches, he has scored 55 runs with an average of 27.50 and a strike rate of 134.14. His highest ODI score is 38 runs.

In T20 International cricket, Rinku has been more impressive. In 45 T20I matches, he has scored 665 runs at an average of 39.11 and a strike rate of 155.73. His best score is 69* runs. He has hit 55 fours and 38 sixes in the shortest format, showing his aggressive batting style.

Ahead of their do-or-die clash of the Super 8 stage from the T20 World Cup 2026 campaign against West Indies at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata, India, the team has received heartbreaking news as the lower-order batter Rinku Singh’s father, Khanchand Singh, died on February 27 due to stage four cancer. The update was provided by the former Indian spinner, Harbhajan Singh. 

Earlier this week, Rinku Singh’s father’s condition worsened, and he had to be put on the ventilator support as the all-rounder’s father was undergoing treatment at the Yatharth Hospital in Greater Noida. This prompted the 28-year-old to fly back home to see his father ahead of their Super 8 stage against Zimbabwe at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

See Also: How can India qualify for T20 World Cup 2026 semifinals after their 72-run win vs Zimbabwe in Super 8s?

“We received the news regarding the death of Rinku's father. He was battling cancer and was admitted to the hospital. He has been on a ventilator for the last 3-4 days. He worked really hard to help his son Rinku play cricket reach where he is today. His father worked as a gas hawker, and today his son is playing for India. It is very sad news.” Rinku’s former coach, Masood Amin, expressed in the video.

Rinku Singh’s father passes away ahead of IND vs WI T20 WC 2026

Rinku Singh’s father played a very crucial role in his son’s journey to professional cricket. Working as an LPG cylinder deliveryman in Aligarh, he faced several financial hardships but never let them stand in the way of his son’s dream. He did everything to support Rinku’s ambition of becoming a successful cricketer.

Watch the video here: 

VIDEO | Aligarh: Masood Amin, former coach of Rinku Singh, on the demise of the cricketer's father, says, "We received the news regarding the death of Rinku's father. He was battling cancer and admitted to hospital. He was on ventilator since last 3-4 days. He worked really hard… pic.twitter.com/AWDZOzkJ1k

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 27, 2026

Rinku has struggled in this World Cup with scores of 06, 01, 11*, 6*, and a duck. The left-handed batter was dropped during their Super 8 clash against Zimbabwe as the Indian side posted a massive score of 256/4 in their allotted 20 overs.

In reply, Zimbabwe got restricted to 184 runs for the loss of six wickets in their allotted 20 overs as their opening batter, Brian Bennett, remained unbeaten on 97 runs. The winner of the last Super 8 game between India and the West Indies will reach the semifinals.

India are facing a must-win fixture against Zimbabwe in the Group 1 Super Eights of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, as Chennai is hosting this match on Thursday night (February 26). For this crucial match, Rinku Singh and Washington Sundar are not in the playing XI, while we will know the reasons here. 

ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, Group 1 (Super Eights), IND vs ZIM: Sanju Samson and Axar Patel return

Zimbabwe won the toss and chose to field first. While Zimbabwe made one change, hosts India made two changes in their playing XI. For India, the wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson and the spin-bowling all-rounder Axar Patel have replaced the middle-order batter Rinku Singh and the spin-bowling all-rounder Washington Sundar. 

See Also: ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, Group 1, Super Eights - IND vs ZIM: Toss Update and Playing XI 

IND vs ZIM: Rinku Singh and Washington Sundar are on bench

It was very expected that Axar Patel would replace Washington Sundar, as India's bet for Sundar went wrong in their last game against South Africa, where the Proteas claimed a thumping victory by 76 runs. Meanwhile, the Men in Blues have also gone with Sanju Samson, probably to make the top-order batting stronger. With Sanju's return, Rinku Singh unfortunately has to leave the spot. 

Rinku Singh recently returned home after his father's health deteriorated. However, he returned to the team before the match.

So, there is no fresh injury news for the Indian team, as both the changes are tactical for the defending champions. 

As the West Indies suffered a comfortable defeat against South Africa, the Semi-finals path is now simpler for the hosts and defending champions India, as they need to beat Zimbabwe and the West Indies to qualify for the Semi-finals. 

South Africa handed India a crushing 76-run defeat in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup Super 8 clash at the Narendra Modi Stadium. It marked India’s biggest loss in T20 World Cup history and dealt a serious blow to their semi-final hopes. With the tournament entering a crucial phase, the team now faces a must-win situation in the Super 8 stage.

Adding to their concerns, key finisher Rinku Singh left the squad on February 24 due to a family emergency. His absence created uncertainty ahead of India’s second Super 8 fixture against Zimbabwe on February 26 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

However, there is positive news for the Indian camp. Rinku is set to rejoin the team ahead of the crucial encounter. He had travelled home to be with his father, who is battling stage four liver cancer. Battting coach Sitanshu Kotak confirmed that the left-hander will return to the squad a day before the must-win clash, providing a timely boost to India’s campaign.

Rinku Singh to rejoin team India by tonight. pic.twitter.com/kO8AF3T3kh

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) February 25, 2026

Also read -Star opener Abhishek Sharma visits Marundeeswarar temple with Axar Patel ahead of 'Do-or-Die' clash against Zimbabwe in T20 World Cup 2026

Rinku Singh Set to Return After Family Emergency

“Rinku Singh is not part of the practice session due to a family emergency. His father is not well. He is expected to join the team again soon,” head coach Sitanshu Kotak said in the pre-match press conference.

Rinku Singh returned home on Tuesday to handle the family emergency. Later, reports said that his father is suffering from stage four liver cancer. He has been admitted to a hospital and is on ventilator support. Rinku missed practice on Tuesday and Wednesday. However, he is expected to reach Chennai in time to be available for selection in the IND vs ZIM match in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup.

Important Role in Team India

Rinku has played in all the matches India have played so far in the tournament and has scored 24 runs. He plays the role of a finisher and usually bats in the death overs. His absence could affect the team balance. He is also a reliable fielder.

The KKR batter has not had a strong tournament with the bat so far. He got his chance in the T20 World Cup after replacing Jitesh Sharma, but he has not been able to make a big impact. He will hope to improve his performance the next time he takes the field for India in the tournament.

Rinku Singh’s Performance and India’s Position in T20 World Cup 2026

The star Indian batter has had a quiet run in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup so far. His scores in the tournament read: 5 (11) against the USA, 1 (6) against Namibia, 11 (4) against Pakistan, 6 (3) against the Netherlands, and 0 (2) against South Africa. Meanwhile, India began their Super 8 campaign with a heavy 76-run defeat to South Africa, a loss that badly affected their net run rate and semi-final hopes. After this one-sided defeat, India must now win their remaining matches to stay in contention for qualification. The team management, led by Suryakumar Yadav and coach Gautam Gambhir, will focus on winning the next match against Zimbabwe and improving their overall performance to keep their campaign alive.