Rinku Singh finally found form for KKR (Courtesy: AP)

How Rinku Singh overcame early brainfade moment to power KKR to first win

Rinku Singh revealed he had a brief mental lapse during his match-winning knock of 53 against Rajasthan Royals as KKR secured their first IPL 2026 win at Eden Gardens. Rinku finally came into form with his knock of 53.

19 Apr 2026, 14:29 by Alan Jose John · India Today

In Short

Rinku Singh scores 53 runs to guide KKR to victory
KKR secures first win of IPL 2026 against Rajasthan Royals
Rinku admits to mental lapse during the intense chase

It was Rinku Singh's day at Eden Gardens on Sunday, April 19, as he guided Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to their first win of the IPL 2026 campaign against Rajasthan Royals. However, the victory did not come without significant pressure and some lapses in concentration.

KKR vs RR: Highlights | Scorecard

Rinku entered the contest with just 79 runs from six games and was in a poor slump. He came to bat when KKR were 52 for four in their chase of 156, starting to steady the ship alongside Rovman Powell. Nevertheless, following the West Indian's dismissal in the 11th over, the KKR vice-captain experienced a brief lapse in concentration.

He skied a delivery in the same over from Ravindra Jadeja straight to Nandre Burger, who dropped it, granting Rinku a second chance. He capitalised on the opportunity, scoring 53 runs off 34 balls and helping KKR secure the win with two balls to spare. Speaking after the match, Rinku candidly admitted to having a moment of mental lapse during the chase and expressed gratitude for his fortune on the day.

"Yes, sometimes the mind doesn't work and that's when you play rash shots. God was with me; the catch was put down, and we won the game," said Rinku.

The KKR vice-captain mentioned his intent to take the game deep despite his lack of form. "It happens sometimes when the runs don't come, you kind of get frustrated. I had a word with the coaches and other batters; we just wanted to take the game deep," said Rinku.

What's Rinku's Best Batting Spot?

This season has predominantly seen Rinku Singh bat at No. 5, but in the previous match against GT, he came out at No. 7. When asked about his ideal role, the KKR vice-captain stated that he is content to bat anywhere from No. 5 and below.

"I don't think too much about it. I can bat at any position. Wherever the team wants me to bat, I am ready," said Rinku.

KKR will face LSG in their next game on April 26.

- Ends