Cricketer Rinku Singh suffered an irreplaceable personal loss early Friday morning as his father, Khanchand Singh, succumbed to a prolonged battle with liver cancer. He was 60.
The mortal remains of Khanchand Singh arrived in Aligarh from Greater Noida this afternoon, with the last rites scheduled to be performed later this evening. The family is currently gathering at the cricketer's residence to pay their final respects.
A Difficult Morning for Team India Star
Khanchand Singh breathed his last at approximately 4:36 AM at Yatharth Hospital in Sector Omega One, Greater Noida, where he was admitted after his condition deteriorated rapidly. Diagnosed with stage-four liver cancer, he had been on ventilator support for the past 3-4 days and was undergoing treatment in the Intensive Care Unit.
Rinku Singh, who was in Chennai with the Indian squad for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, had rushed back to be with his father on Tuesday morning when news of his critical condition first emerged. After spending precious final moments with his family, he had rejoined the team camp on February 25 but was not included in the playing XI for India's Super 8 match against Zimbabwe.
Funeral to Be Held This Evening in Aligarh
Speaking to media representatives, Rinku's fiancée Priya Saroj's father, Tufani Saroj, confirmed the family's movements. "Priya has been with Rinku's family for several days. We had also gone there at night. While returning, we received the news of his father's death," he said.
The mortal remains have now reached Aligarh, where family members, friends, and local residents have begun gathering to mourn the loss. The funeral procession is expected to commence in the evening.
'He Worked as a Gas Hawker So Rinku Could Play Cricket'
The story of Khanchand Singh is inseparable from the success story of his cricketer son. In their last interaction with Dainik Bhaskar during the India vs Pakistan match, the proud father had spoken about his son's performance, saying, "It was a good game. I wasn't feeling well, but now I'm good. I watched the entire match. Rinku is a star now. If he had played more balls, he would have scored even more."
Rinku Singh's former coach Masood Amin paid an emotional tribute, highlighting the sacrifices the family made. "We received the news of Rinku's father's passing. He was battling cancer and was admitted to the hospital. He worked very hard to help his son Rinku pursue cricket, which is why he has reached this level today. His father worked as a gas hawker, and today his son is playing for India."
The financial struggles of the Singh family are well-documented. In previous interviews, Rinku had spoken about how he and his four brothers would help their father deliver gas cylinders to homes and hotels on motorcycles. Despite the hardships, the family pooled resources to buy cricket balls and supported Rinku's dreams through every obstacle.
Cricket Fraternity Mourns the Loss
The news of Rinku Singh father passes away sent shockwaves through the cricket community, with several former players reaching out to offer support.
Yuvraj Singh took to social media to express his grief: "Heartbroken to hear the news. No words ever feel enough at a time like this. Standing with you in this difficult moment. Hope you find courage and strength in the love around you."
Harbhajan Singh also shared his condolences, saying, "I am saddened to learn about the passing of Rinku Singh's father, Khanchand Singh. This will be a very difficult time for Rinku and his family. Rinku has remained fully dedicated to his responsibilities towards his country and team during the T20 World Cup. My heartfelt prayers are with him and his loved ones."
Former cricketer Suresh Raina also offered his condolences to the grieving family.
A Father's Dream Fulfilled
Khanchand Singh lived to see his son achieve what few even dare to dream—representing India on the international stage. From delivering gas cylinders in the narrow lanes of Aligarh to watching his son wear the blue jersey, his journey was one of immense sacrifice and quiet determination.
As the cricket fraternity rallies around Rinku Singh during this difficult time, the images of a father's unwavering support for his son's dreams serve as a poignant reminder of the foundations upon which sporting careers are built.
The Team India management is understood to be in touch with the player, offering all necessary support as he navigates this personal tragedy. Rinku is expected to remain with his family in Aligarh for the coming days.
