Johannesburg, November 14, 2024 — As India gear up for the deciding fourth T20I against South Africa on Friday, Rinku Singh’s batting position remains a cause for concern. Despite his explosive T20 credentials, the Aligarh-born batter’s recent form has been underwhelming, with the team’s leadership, including Suryakumar Yadav and interim head coach VVS Laxman, likely to reassess his role.
Rinku Singh Struggling with Batting Position and Approach
Rinku has batted at number six in two games and number seven in another during the series, managing a modest 28 runs from 34 balls. While his limited opportunities in the middle and lower order aren’t ideal for showcasing his abilities, the lack of impactful performances has raised doubts. In the 2023 IPL, Rinku played just 113 balls across 15 games for KKR, averaging around 7.5 balls per match. He was typically used as a finisher, which has affected his rhythm in international cricket.
With players like Sanju Samson solidifying his spot as an opener and Tilak Varma emerging as a strong contender at No. 3, Rinku’s place in the lineup, especially ahead of Hardik Pandya, remains uncertain. His best performances have come when he has batted higher up, particularly at number five, making it crucial for the team to find clarity on his role before the 2026 T20 World Cup.
India’s Pursuit of Bilateral Series Victory
India are determined to secure a 3-1 win in the series, after centuries by Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma kept the team in control, despite an underwhelming performance in the middle overs. The Wanderers ‘Bull Ring’ in Johannesburg has been a happy hunting ground for India, with fond memories of their 2007 T20 World Cup victory and Suryakumar Yadav’s century in the previous series against South Africa. India’s captain, known for his impressive 81.25% win rate, is eager to improve on their 1-1 draw from the last series in South Africa.
Team Composition and Tactical Adjustments
India have used 12 out of 15 players in the first three games, and it will be interesting to see if one of the uncapped pacers, Yash Dayal or Vysakh Vijaykumar, gets a debut cap in the final match. The team might consider adjusting their bowling strategy based on the pitch conditions, potentially bringing in an extra pace option.
For Sanju Samson, the focus will be on overcoming his recent struggles against Marco Jansen, having been dismissed by him in back-to-back innings. The team management may also look at giving Ramandeep Singh a chance to showcase his medium pace and versatility, given his ability to field at all positions and contribute with the ball.
Squads:
- India: Suryakumar Yadav (c), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (WK), Rinku Singh, Tilak Varma, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Ramandeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Avesh Khan, Yash Dayal.
- South Africa: Aiden Markram (c), Ottneil Baartman, Gerald Coetzee, Donovan Ferreira, Reeza Hendricks, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen, Patrick Kruger, Keshav Maharaj, David Miller, Mihlali Mpongwana, Nqaba Peter, Ryan Rickelton, Andile Simelane, Lutho Sipamla, Tristan Stubbs.
Match Time: 8:30 PM (Local Time)
