Rinku Singh Set To Rejoin Team India In Chennai Ahead Of Crucial Zimbabwe Clash

February 25, 2026: Star Indian batter Rinku Singh is set to rejoin the Indian squad ahead of their crucial T20 World Cup 2026 match against Zimbabwe on Thursday. The left-handed batter had temporarily left the team camp to be with his father, who is battling stage four liver cancer and is currently on ventilator support in a hospital. Initially, it was uncertain whether Rinku would be available for the must-win clash.

Head coach Sitanshu Kotak confirmed in the pre-match press conference that Rinku missed practice due to a family emergency but is expected to return to the squad soon. He was absent from training sessions on Tuesday and Wednesday after travelling home, but he is likely to arrive in Chennai in time to be considered for selection.

Rinku has played in all of India’s matches in the T20 World Cup 2026 so far, scoring 24 runs. Though his contributions with the bat have been limited, he plays an important role as a finisher in the death overs. His presence adds balance to the side, and he is also valued for his fielding skills. His return will be a boost for the team ahead of the important encounter.

🚨 GOOD NEWS FOR TEAM INDIA 🚨

- Rinku Singh will re-join Indian team today evening. [RevSportz] pic.twitter.com/7CIMpB8BOY

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) February 25, 2026

India Players Seek Blessings Before Crucial Match

Amid the news of Rinku Singh rejoining the squad, star opener Abhishek Sharma and vice-captain Axar Patel were seen visiting the famous Marundeeswarar Temple in Chennai. The visit came one day before the important India vs Zimbabwe T20 World Cup 2026 match.

The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is known as a place of healing. The name “Marundeeswarar” means “Lord of Medicines.” Many people visit the temple to pray for good health and relief from illness. It is one of the most important spiritual places in Chennai.

Abhishek Sharma and Axar Patel visited the famous Marundeeswarar Temple in Tiruvanmayur ahead of Do or Die Super 8 Clash Against Zimbabwe #IndvZim #T20WorldCup2026 pic.twitter.com/QqGqfskcj1

— Arattai Squad (@arattaiSquad) February 25, 2026

Abhishek Looks for Return to Form

The visit was very important for Abhishek. The left-hand batter was earlier hospitalised due to a stomach infection. Because of this, he missed a group stage match against Namibia. He has also struggled with form in the tournament.

With India’s semi-final hopes under pressure, Abhishek went to seek blessings for a return to form. Before joining the T20 World Cup squad, he had organised a ‘jagrata’ at his home. After a difficult time in the tournament, he once again turned to prayer for support.

India must win their remaining two matches, starting with the clash against Zimbabwe in Chennai on Thursday. The Men in Blue also need to improve their net run rate after a 76-run loss to South Africa, which hurt their chances of reaching the semi-finals.