IND vs IRE: "It's Never Come Easy To Rinku Singh" - Brendon McCullum Lauds KKR Batter For His Debut Innings

England Test Head Coach Brendon McCullum expressed delight with the performance of Rinku Singh in his debut innings in the second T20I against Ireland. Brendon McCullum said that Singh had worked very hard to earn the opportunity to represent the Indian team.

Rinku Singh made his international debut for India in the first T20I against Ireland. However, the left-handed batter didn’t get a chance to bat in his series opener. He scored 38 runs off 21 balls, including two fours and three sixes, to help his team put up a competitive total.

I’ve Seen The Effort That He’s Put In – Brendon McCullum

Brendon McCullum, who served as Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) coach in the past, wished Rinku Singh the best of luck, adding that the world will enjoy his story.

“Yes, (it’s) really pleasing, because I’ve seen the effort that he’s put in..the scrap and the fight. It’s never come easy to Rinku. He’s had to work for it. Because he’s such a humble guy and a wonderful team man,” McCullum told TOI.

“He’s often easy to overlook, but what we’ve seen from Rinku in the past season and a half of the IPL, and now the opportunity he’s getting for India is that he is extremely talented.”

“He has a game which he belongs at that level and he can do special things and I wish him all the best. He’s a great character and a great human being and a very, very talented player. I’m sure the world will enjoy his story,” he added.

Rinku has been part of the Kolkata Knight Riders since 2018 but didn’t get many chances to showcase his potential as a batter. The IPL 2023 was a breakthrough season for him, where he scored 74 runs in 14 matches at a strike rate of almost 150.

Very Confident And Tried To Stay Calm – Rinku Singh

Rinku Singh expressed his happiness after a decade of dedication paid off with success. He credited his performance to his experience in the IPL and the captain’s advice.

“I am feeling very good. I was trying to do what I have done in the IPL. I was very confident and tried to stay calm. I listen to the captain (smiles),” Rinku said.

“I am feeling very nice. I have been playing for 10 years. All my efforts have born fruition. I am happy to get the Man of the Match award in my first game,” he added.

The 25-year-old will be next seen in action during the third and final T20I match against Ireland. which is scheduled to be played in Dublin on Wednesday, August 23.

Also read: IND Vs IRE: ‘There Are Vey Few Players In World Cricket Like Rinku Singh’- KKR Coach’s Mammoth Praise On Indian Debutant