Ahead of the first ODI between India and South Africa in Johannesburg, KL Rahul gave his support to Rinku Singh, implying that the left-hander will make his ODI debut in the upcoming three-match series. He commended Rinku for his superb batting performance and mentioned his novel approach at the crease. During the most recent match against South Africa, Rinku Singh, who created waves during his T20I debut at the Asian Games 2023, famously recorded his first T20I fifty.
In praising the batsman from Uttar Pradesh for his skill as a finisher, Rahul mentioned how crucial he was in keeping the team’s innings steady during a tense moment in the 2nd T20I against South Africa in Gqeberha. The India captain praised Rinku’s amazing batting ability and highlighted his extraordinary maturity. He also disclosed that he had a conversation with the prospective batter regarding his participation.
Rinku Singh has proven to be an incredibly talented player.
We were all aware of his skills when we watched him play in the IPL. However, what has been particularly impressive is the attitude he showed in the T20I series, as well as his serenity and game knowledge when things got tough. Seeing that on television has been incredibly reviving for me. I was just talking to him about that also. In first-class cricket, he has excelled in all formats. According to India Today, Rahul stated during the pre-match news conference, “So, yeah, he will get his opportunity even in the ODI series.”
Middle-order status for Sanju Samson
Rahul also revealed that Sanju Samson would be inserted into the middle order for the next ODI series against South Africa. Samson is anticipated to bat either fifth or sixth. Along the way, Samson has been considered for the ODI World Cup roster. Most notably, he has played in the Asia Cup as a backup for KL Rahul, who is injured.
The absence of important senior players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja, and Jasprit Bumrah has resulted in a youthful transition within India’s ODI squad. These veteran players will be added to the squad prior to the test series. After India’s T20I heroics, the ODI series ends in a 1-1 draw.