The Indian squad for the Asia Cup T20, to be announced on Tuesday, is expected to test the selection panel led by Ajit Agarkar, with Rinku Singh’s place under serious question.
Once hailed as India’s designated finisher after his five sixes against Yash Dayal in the IPL, Rinku has slipped down the pecking order. He missed out on the T20 World Cup squad, had a quiet IPL in 2024 (113 balls faced), and a similar 2025 season (134 balls), raising doubts over his utility. Even under Gautam Gambhir at KKR, his role was reduced.
With Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma certain selections, the return of Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal has intensified competition for batting slots. A former selector noted, “You can’t disturb the top five. If Gill comes in, someone has to make way — and Rinku looks most vulnerable.”
The finisher’s role could instead go to Shivam Dube, if fit, or Jitesh Sharma, who also offers wicketkeeping. Both are seen as more multi-dimensional options than Rinku. As the squad is finalised, all eyes will be on whether Rinku retains his place — or becomes the first casualty of India’s selection crunch.
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