Ravichandran Ashwin Advocates for Rinku Singh's Promotion in KKR's Batting Order
Ashwin's Call for Rinku Singh's Elevated Role
In a recent discussion, former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin has encouraged the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to give Rinku Singh a more significant role in the batting lineup for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season. He believes that the left-handed batsman should be elevated to the number four position, allowing him to have a greater impact on the game.
Rinku, who has been a loyal player for KKR, had a standout performance in the IPL 2023, accumulating 474 runs. He was instrumental in the team's success during the 2024 season, contributing to their title win.
However, last season saw him batting as low as seventh or eighth in the order, which limited his opportunities and resulted in only 206 runs across 13 innings.
On his YouTube channel, Ash ki Baat, Ashwin emphasized the importance of KKR allowing Rinku more time at the crease rather than using him solely as a finisher. He stated, “KKR seems a bit stuck with their lineup. With Cameron Green joining, there’s a question of where he fits in. If I were in charge, I would place Rinku Singh at No. 4. If two wickets fall early, Green can be pushed up, but after the powerplay, Rinku should be given a chance to settle in for a few overs before attacking the bowlers.”
Rinku's recent performance in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 was less than stellar, as he scored only 24 runs in five matches before being dropped, although he remained part of the victorious Indian squad.
With KKR likely to revamp their batting lineup following the departure of key players like Venkatesh Iyer and the retirement of Andre Russell, Ashwin sees this as an ideal moment to redefine Rinku's role within the team.
“This season should see Rinku Singh contributing more runs than ever before. He has the potential to score big, as evidenced by his performances in the Ranji Trophy. KKR has a chance to elevate Rinku and give him a more prominent role. They have the talent to surprise opponents even when they are not at their peak,” Ashwin remarked.
KKR is set to kick off their IPL journey against the Mumbai Indians at Wankhede Stadium on March 29.