Rinku Singh: From Sweeper's Job to Cricket Stardom, His Incredible Journey

This podcast episode features Rinku Singh, a cricketer whose life story is truly inspiring. He shares his journey from facing severe financial struggles in Aligarh to becoming a well-known name in the IPL. Rinku opens up about the hardships his family faced, the moments that defined his career, and the personal challenges that have shaped him.

Humble Beginnings and Near Misses

Rinku Singh's early life was marked by significant financial difficulties. His father worked with gas cylinders, and Rinku was expected to join him. Cricket wasn't initially supported by his father, who would often chase him away. There was a point where Rinku almost gave up cricket to take up a sweeper's job, a testament to the extreme struggles he faced.

His mother played a crucial role in his journey, even lending him ₹1000 for a trip to Kanpur when he was selected for a team. This act of sacrifice was deeply emotional for Rinku, as his mother had to borrow the money, and he worried about how they would repay it.

The "God's Plan" Tattoo and Monkey Bites

The phrase "God's Plan" holds deep meaning for Rinku. He believes in trusting the higher power and working hard with a pure heart. He shared that the phrase became significant after his brother played him a song with the same title, explaining its meaning of faith and hard work.

The "God's Plan" tattoo, featuring sun rays and dots representing his five sixes, is a constant reminder of this belief. Rinku also has a unique story about being bitten by a monkey five times, with one incident leaving a significant mark on his arm, even causing a 1kg difference in weight between his arms due to muscle loss.

Career-Defining Moments and Mentorship

One of the most talked-about moments in Rinku's career was his unforgettable innings where he hit five sixes. This performance was a turning point, changing his life overnight. He recalls the immense pressure during that match, the feeling of not hitting the ball well, and the fear of disappointing everyone.

His journey with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) has been significant. He was picked by KKR in 2018, which marked a major life change, bringing in ₹80 lakh. This financial stability was crucial for his family.

He also shared his experiences with senior players like Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni. He recalled a moment when Virat Kohli gave him a bat after his own broke during practice, a gesture that went viral. Rinku admires Kohli's confidence and fighting spirit. He also spoke about seeking advice from MS Dhoni on staying calm during pressure situations, with Dhoni emphasizing the importance of staying calm and believing in oneself.

Overcoming Fears and Language Barriers

Rinku admitted to having several fears, including a significant fear of ghosts, which leads him to sleep with a light on. He also shared a frightening experience during a flight turbulence that left him scared of flying. He also discussed his struggles with English, recalling an incident in Europe where he couldn't order food properly. While he has made progress, he still finds it challenging at times, especially when dealing with unfamiliar situations.

Personal Life and Family Sacrifices

His love life also became a topic of discussion. Rinku met his girlfriend, Priya, through a fan page. Their initial interactions were managed by his friend Rana, and Rinku was initially shy. He shared the challenges of dating someone in the public eye and the adjustments they had to make.

He highlighted the immense sacrifices his family, especially his mother, made for his career. From lending money for his trips to supporting his dream despite his father's initial disapproval, his family's backing was unwavering. He also spoke about the financial struggles, including the time when his family had to sell their belongings to support his cricket.

Future Aspirations

Rinku's biggest dream is to represent India in major tournaments like the World Cup and contribute to the team's victory. He is focused on continuous hard work and improvement to maintain his place in the Indian team. He believes in staying true to himself, working hard, and trusting the process, a philosophy that has guided him through his remarkable journey.