Indian cricketer Rinku Singh’s father, Khanchand Singh, passed away early Friday, February 27, 2026, in Greater Noida after a long fight with Stage 4 liver cancer. The news brought an outpouring of condolences from across the cricketing community, with prominent former players expressing their solidarity with the grieving family. Khanchand Singh, 54, was admitted to Yatharth Hospital in Greater Noida on February 21 as his condition worsened, eventually requiring ventilator support.
A Father's Sacrifice and Struggle
Khanchand Singh's life was marked by immense hard work and sacrifice, playing a pivotal role in shaping Rinku Singh's journey to international cricket stardom. He worked for decades as an LPG cylinder delivery man for Indane in Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, earning a modest income of around Rs 12,000 per month. The family, including Rinku and his four siblings, lived in a small two-room quarter provided by the gas agency. Despite the financial hardships, Khanchand Singh ensured his children were supported.[goyahills+7]
Initially, Khanchand Singh pushed Rinku towards studies, even reportedly chastising him for focusing too much on cricket. However, his perspective shifted dramatically after witnessing Rinku receive a Man of the Match award and realizing his son could earn a living from the sport. From then on, he became a staunch supporter of Rinku's cricketing dreams, making numerous sacrifices to help his son succeed. Rinku has often credited his father's relentless labor as the primary motivation behind his cricketing success. Khanchand Singh continued working even after Rinku gained fame, only stopping when he was diagnosed with liver cancer some time ago.[hindustantimes+7]
Battle with Illness and Final Moments
Khanchand Singh had been battling Stage 4 liver cancer for about a year. His health deteriorated significantly in recent days, leading to his admission to Yatharth Hospital on February 21, where he was placed on ventilator support. Dr. Sunil Kumar, a spokesperson for Yatharth Hospital, confirmed that Khanchand Singh "breathed his last early this morning" on Friday, February 27, 2026. Family members were at his bedside during his final moments. Following his passing, Khanchand Singh's body was transported to Aligarh, Rinku's hometown, where the last rites were performed. Alarge number of local residents and cricketers gathered to pay their respects.[hindustantimes+10]
Cricket Community Unites in Support
The news of Khanchand Singh's death deeply saddened the cricketing fraternity, prompting an outpouring of heartfelt messages and condolences on social media. Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh expressed his grief, stating, "Heartbreaking news to hear of the passing of Rinku's father. In moments like these, no words feel enough. Standing in solidarity with you and your family during this difficult time." He added, "May you find strength and courage in the love that surrounds you."[timesofindia]
Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh also conveyed his sympathies. "Pained to learn about the demise of Shri Khanchand Singh Ji, father of Rinku Singh. This must be an especially difficult time for Rinku and his family, even as he remains committed to his responsibilities during the T20 World Cup," Harbhajan wrote on X. He further offered, "My heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with him and his loved ones. May Waheguru grant eternal peace to the departed soul and give strength and courage to the bereaved family."[timesofindia+3]
India's batting stalwart Virat Kohli also mourned the loss. "Deeply saddened by the news of Rinku's father's demise. My heartfelt prayers and thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time. May you always find strength in his eternal blessings," Kohli shared. Other prominent cricketers who extended their condolences included Virender Sehwag, Suresh Raina, and Shikhar Dhawan. Suresh Raina wrote, "Deeply saddened to hear about your father's passing, my brother. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. May his soul rest in peace, and may you and your family find strength and comfort during this difficult time. Om Shanti." Several Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises also posted messages of support, offering prayers and strength to Rinku and his family.[hindustantimes+3]
Rinku's Dedication Amidst Personal Grief
The personal tragedy struck Rinku Singh amidst his commitments with the Indian team at the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026. Rinku had briefly left the team camp in Chennai earlier in the week when his father's health critically declined, rushing to Greater Noida to be with him. Despite the emotional turmoil, he rejoined the squad ahead of India's Super 8 match against Zimbabwe. Although he was not part of the playing XI for that match, he was present with the team and even came on as a substitute fielder.[thehindu+13]
Upon hearing the news of his father's passing early Friday morning, Rinku immediately left the team again, flying from Chennai to New Delhi and then traveling to Aligarh to participate in the funeral rituals. Demonstrating remarkable professional commitment, Rinku rejoined the Indian team in Kolkata on Saturday morning, February 28, 2026, just hours after performing his father's last rites. He is expected to be with the squad for their crucial Super 8 match against the West Indies. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA) have also expressed their deepest sympathies and support for Rinku during this difficult period.[sports+5]
A Bittersweet Future
Adding to the profound sadness, Rinku Singh is engaged to politician Priya Saroj, an elected Member of Parliament. Their engagement took place on June 8, 2025, and a wedding is scheduled for June 2026. The timing of his father's death, just months before this joyous event, makes the loss even more heartbreaking for Rinku and his family. As wedding preparations were reportedly progressing rapidly, Rinku will now embark on this new chapter of his life without his father physically present.[en+7]
