Irfan Pathan Hints at T20 World Cup Setback for Rinku Singh

By Harshit - Dec 06, 2025 05:56 PM
Last updated on Dec 06, 2025 05:56 PM

India’s preparations for the upcoming T20 World Cup have entered a decisive phase, and the recent squad announcement for the South Africa series has triggered intense discussion. Fans and experts alike were stunned to see Rinku Singh left out, especially after his standout finishing displays earlier this year. What makes the exclusion even more dramatic is how sharply it contrasts with his calm, match-winning presence, including the memorable winning boundary he struck in the Asia Cup final against Pakistan.

While Rinku’s skill as a dependable finisher is undeniable, former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has offered a compelling insight behind the selection call. Pathan believes Hardik Pandya’s return from injury shifted the entire team combination, pushing Rinku out of the squad. He further suggested that the players selected for the South Africa series already represent around 95% of the core India will carry into the T20 World Cup.

Adding to the intrigue is the re-balancing of India’s all-round department. Washington Sundar’s selection in place of Rinku Singh suggests a strategic push toward multi-dimensional players—an approach that head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Suryakumar Yadav appear firmly committed to. This direction, according to experts, could define India’s playing strategy for years to come.

Rinku Singh Misses Out as Hardik Pandya Returns

The biggest talking point in Indian cricket circles is the omission of Rinku Singh, a player who rose to prominence with fearless finishing and an incredible ability to maintain composure under pressure. Despite being in the Asia Cup squad and traveling with the Indian team during the Australia tour for T20Is, Rinku barely had opportunities to showcase his talent. His only appearance in Australia was washed out due to rain, leaving him without a chance to bat or impress selectors further.

Hardik Pandya’s return, however, added a layer of complexity to the selection debate. Known for his powerful hitting and valuable seam-bowling, Hardik is a rare all-rounder who balances the team in multiple departments. This versatility may have overshadowed the need for a dedicated finisher like Rinku, especially as India aims to create a deeper all-round lineup heading into the global tournament next year.

Washington Sundar’s inclusion demonstrates the new selection philosophy. A spinning all-rounder who can adapt to different formats, Sundar provides balance in both batting and bowling. While this move prioritizes versatility, it also raises questions about the value of specialist roles like finishing, where Rinku Singh has already proven his worth.

Irfan Pathan: “Hardik’s Return Pushed Rinku Out”

Irfan Pathan, speaking on his YouTube channel, delivered a candid view of the situation. According to him, the moment Hardik Pandya was deemed fit, Rinku Singh’s position became vulnerable. Hardik has long been central to India’s limited-overs strategy, and his absence had created space for emerging players like Rinku. With Hardik back in the mix, the team naturally shifted toward his experience and all-round value.

Pathan stated that this selection is not merely about current series performance but about shaping the team for the long-term goal — the 2026 T20 World Cup. He suggested that the South Africa squad reflects “90–95%” of the potential World Cup unit, making Rinku’s absence even more significant. It implies that unless circumstances change dramatically, Rinku may no longer be viewed as a frontrunner for major ICC tournaments.

The comment has resonated strongly among fans, many of whom believe Rinku had earned a longer run. The contrast between Pathan’s assessment and fan expectations has sparked active debate on social media, with many questioning whether India risks losing a natural finishing talent by prioritizing all-round depth.

India’s T20 World Cup Core: A Strategic Balance

Irfan Pathan further expanded on the broader team strategy, emphasizing that India must finalize several key combinations before settling on a World Cup squad. One of the main decisions will be how to balance the pace attack, finishing options, and spin resources. The combination of Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, and Shivam Dube gives India an imposing fast-bowling and medium-pace cushion, especially if all remain fit.

On the spin front, India has an enviable trio in Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, and Varun Chakravarthy. Their presence signals a shift toward spin-heavy strategies, especially on slower pitches expected during the tournament. Pathan noted that these spinners, in combination with India’s power hitters, could form the backbone of the squad.

However, what stood out most from Pathan’s remarks was his emphasis on Hardik Pandya’s pivotal role. He believes that Hardik, alongside another finisher, will determine whether India can reclaim the T20 World Cup trophy. The all-rounder’s form, fitness, and ability to close games could shape India’s entire campaign.

Hardik Pandya’s Crucial Role for India

Hardik Pandya’s re-entry into the squad marks more than just a player returning from injury — it signifies a shift in India’s T20 identity. His ability to bowl at challenging stages, bat with explosive power, and lead with confidence has made him indispensable to India’s World Cup ambitions.

Irfan Pathan stressed that Hardik will be the most influential player in India’s T20 future. Whether India adopts a strategy with three spinners or a pace-heavy plan, Hardik’s flexibility allows the team to switch gears effortlessly. His finishing ability also provides India with the cushion to experiment with dynamic lineups.

This is why Pathan believes India’s success hinges on Hardik’s performance and the presence of another strong finisher who complements him. With Rinku Singh currently sidelined, the search for that secondary finisher intensifies — and could shape India’s selection decisions in the coming months.

The Road Ahead for Rinku Singh

Rinku Singh’s exclusion is undeniably disappointing, but it does not mark the end of his journey. With major tournaments and bilateral series ahead, he still has room to reclaim his spot. His calm temperament, fearless stroke play, and unique finishing ability make him an asset India may need sooner rather than later.

What remains clear is that India’s T20 team-building journey is far from over. As the competition stiffens and the World Cup nears, selection choices will evolve based on form, fitness, and conditions. Rinku’s consistent performances in domestic cricket and the IPL will be crucial if he hopes to re-enter the core group.

For now, the spotlight remains on Hardik Pandya’s return, Irfan Pathan’s sharp insights, and India’s shifting blueprint for T20 dominance. The South Africa series will serve as a major indicator of the strategy India intends to carry into the next global ICC event.

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