Kolkata Knight Riders captain Ajinkya Rahane had special praise for Rinku Singh after the franchise appointed him the vice-captain ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League season.

Speaking at Knights Unplugged 3.0, Rahane underlined how integral Rinku has become to the identity of the franchise.

Rahane said, “Obviously, and you yourself have summed it up, when we think of KKR, the first name that comes to our mind is Shahrukh Khan; the next name that comes to our mind is Rinku Singh.”

Rinku’s rise in the ranks

Rinku’s journey with Kolkata Knight Riders has been one of perseverance and gradual growth. Having spent seven years with the franchise, he has not always got the opportunities that many young players get in the IPL. Often used as a substitute fielder in his early years, Rinku had to make the most of limited opportunities.

By performing consistently well in those moments, he earned his place in the core of the team and is now considered one of the most important players of KKR. His rise at the franchise level also extended to the international stage, where he broke into India’s T20I setup and was part of the team that won. T20 World Cup in Ahmedabad.

KKR head coach Abhishek Nair also reflected on Rinku’s journey and growth within the setup.

“I think it’s quite appropriate because my first memory of coming to KKR and being part of the support staff was working with Rinku Singh. So now taking over as the head coach, I think over the years we have seen Rinku Singh develop not only as a cricketer but also as a leader over the years, while his performances have spoken for themselves, I think in many ways off the field, speak volumes.” Without saying, he is someone the team always looks up to,” Nair said.

He said the time felt right to hand Rinku more responsibility within the group.

“Now with the big power hitter, we wanted a little more responsibility on his shoulders and I think after becoming a World Cup champion it’s the right time for him to take that responsibility and help take the reins,” he said.

Rinku on vice-captaincy duties

Before the new season, KKR confirms Rinku Singh as vice-captainA decision that reflects both his development and position within the team. Addressing the team and management at the event, Rinku explained what this role means to her.

“It feels amazing. You have given me the opportunity to serve as vice-captain. Recently, Team India became world champions and I was a part of that journey. It is every player’s dream to represent Team India and win the World Cup, so that dream of mine has now come true.”

As far as the responsibility you have entrusted to me, sir, I will give my best. I will work closely with my colleagues and all of you and perform my duties with full dedication.

I would also like to say: Please continue to support our team, whether we are going through good times or bad. Your support is needed even more in difficult times. That’s all I want to say.

We, as a team, will definitely play well. We have a very strong team. While the tournament takes place every year, we will strive to perform even better this time and aim to bring home the trophy.”

Rinku’s appointment is another milestone in a journey built on patience and performance, with the franchise reposing faith in one of its most consistent performers.

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