ALIGARH/GREATER NOIDA — In a somber moment for the Indian cricket community, Khanchand Singh, the father of star cricketer Rinku Singh, passed away on Friday morning, February 27, 2026. He was 54 years old and had been battling fourth-stage liver cancer. According to hospital sources, he breathed his last at approximately 4:36 a.m. at a private healthcare facility in Greater Noida, where he had been placed on ventilator support after his condition became critical earlier this week.
The news of his father’s deteriorating health reached Rinku Singh this past Tuesday while he was in Chennai with the national squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup. Demonstrating his deep family ties, Rinku immediately left the team’s practice sessions to rush home and be by his father’s side during his final days. After spending time with his family, the resilient batter returned to Chennai on Wednesday, February 25, to honour his professional commitments and rejoin his teammates for the ongoing tournament.
Despite the profound personal grief, Rinku Singh remained dedicated to the team’s campaign. During India’s Super-8 match against Zimbabwe in Chennai on Thursday, February 26, while he was not included in the starting playing XI, he was seen on the field contributing as a substitute fielder. His presence and focus on the game, despite the critical state of his father at the time, have been noted by many as a testament to his immense mental strength and commitment to the national side.
Khanchand Singh was a pivotal figure in Rinku’s journey from a humble background in Aligarh to international stardom. Known for his hard work as an LPG cylinder delivery man, he famously supported his son’s dreams through years of financial hardship. His story of perseverance has often been cited by Rinku as his primary source of motivation. As the news of his passing spreads, tributes from the cricketing fraternity have begun to pour in, recognizing the man who stood as the pillar behind one of India’s most promising young talents.
