(BCCI Photo)
Following the conclusion of his tenure as the batting coach of the Indian team, Vikram Rathour discussed the upcoming transition phase in Indian cricket. With Gautam Gambhir set to take over as head coach from the Zimbabwe series onwards, Rathour emphasized Gambhir’s intention to build his own support staff during his tenure.
During his time as batting coach under Rahul Dravid’s leadership, Rathour witnessed India’s triumph in the T20 World Cup 2024, experiencing both the highs and lows of the team firsthand. Over the past few years, he has observed the emergence of several talented batsmen, many of whom have staked their claim for long-term roles in the national side.
With the T20I retirements of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, Rathour has been instrumental in preparing the next generation of Indian batsmen to shoulder the responsibility of run-scoring in the format. Notably, Rinku Singh has stood out as the designated finisher in the youthful Indian squad, showcasing his prowess by scoring 60 runs in the Zimbabwe series at a striking rate exceeding 176, and impressively hitting six sixes.
Speaking with PTI, Rathour highlighted Rinku Singh’s impressive domestic record as a strong indicator of his potential in Test cricket. Singh boasts a first-class average of 54.70 and a List A average of 48.69. In T20Is, across his initial 20 matches, he maintains a remarkable average of 83.20 alongside a striking strike rate of nearly 180. Rathour firmly endorsed the young talent for a future in Test cricket for India.
Can’t See Why Rinku Singh Cannot Be A Successful Test Batter: Vikram Rathour
“When I see him (Rinku) bat in nets, I can’t find any technical reasons why Rinku cannot be a successful Test batter. I understand he has made his name as a terrific finisher in T20 cricket but if you look at his first-class record, he is averaging in high 50s” said Vikram Rathour.
Moreover, Rathour noted that Rinku Singh possesses a serene temperament, a crucial attribute for excelling in Test cricket.
“He (Rinku) is also blessed with a very calm temperament. So all these factors indicate that if given an opportunity, he can develop into a Test cricketer,” Rathour added on Rinku.
The young cricketer has firmly established himself in the T20I squad, showcasing his power-hitting prowess with 26 sixes and 33 fours in a short span. Additionally, he contributes significantly on the field with his athleticism, demonstrated by taking six catches in the Zimbabwe series and a total of 13 catches in T20Is.
Rinku Singh was recognized as the best fielder of the series against Zimbabwe, despite overcoming an injury scare in the final T20I to swiftly return to action.
