Indian cricketer Rinku Singh is grappling with immense personal grief following the death of his father, Khanchand Singh, who lost his battle with stage-four cancer on Friday morning.
Khanchand Singh passed away at Yatharth Hospital in Greater Noida, where he had been under treatment for the advanced illness. His condition had taken a sharp turn for the worse earlier in the week, leading to ventilator support as doctors fought to manage his deteriorating health.
The tragedy unfolds against the backdrop of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026, where the 28-year-old all-rounder is part of India’s squad. Rinku had temporarily left the team camp prior to the crucial Super 8 clash against Zimbabwe at Chennai’s MA Chidambaram Stadium to stay with his family during his father’s critical phase. He returned to the squad in time for the fixture but was not selected in the playing eleven, with Sanju Samson taking his spot.
Veteran former India spinner Harbhajan Singh was quick to offer his sympathies. Posting on X, he shared: “Pained to learn about the demise of Shri Khanchand Singh Ji, father of Rinku Singh. This must be an especially difficult time for Rinku and his family, even as he remains committed to his responsibilities during the T20 World Cup. My heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with him and his loved ones. May Waheguru grant eternal peace to the departed soul and give strength and courage to the bereaved family.”
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The cricketing world and supporters have united in sending messages of support to Rinku, recognizing the heavy emotional burden he carries while fulfilling his international duties. Khanchand Singh’s extended struggle with cancer had been in the public eye in recent days, highlighting the stark contrast between personal adversity and the demands of elite sport.