[WATCH] ‘You are not alone, the whole team is with you’ - Gautam Gambhir hails Rinku Singh for his brave act

Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir has saluted the fighting spirit Rinku Singh has shown in the last few challenging days. Gambhir was talking during a pep talk ahead of India’s knockout clash against West Indies at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata. 

It has been a challenging phase for the middle-order batter, as he lost his father a few days ago. Rinku’s father was battling stage-four cancer. After the match against Zimbabwe, Rinku got to know of his father's demise and flew home for a day for his cremation. With the Indian team battling for the semifinal spot, he decided to join the team immediately afterwards.

The Indian head coach gave his support to Rinku, saying that the whole team is standing behind him in this tough phase.

“Guys, before I start, Rinku, it takes a lot of character to come and join the team. Remember one thing, you are not alone, the whole team is standing next to you during this hour, so stay strong,” he said in a video released by BCCI.

As the team was preparing for a must-win encounter against the Windies, the former Indian opener also had some pep talk with his players. He was seen motivating them, encouraging them to not take any pressure.

“Guys, there's got to be pressure. One thing is very clear, make sure that we don't hide away from the pressure. We embrace it, we face it and if anytime we feel we are under pressure, make sure we take the positive route. Enjoy playing this game, this is what you play this game for, this sport for, this is what you've played all your life.”

“Games like this at home, knockout kind of a game, so make sure we go out there excited, not any under pressure. Anytime for next 40 overs, if you feel the pressure, make sure we take the positive route. Okay, be brave, be courageous, enjoy it, enjoy playing for the country and most importantly, enjoy playing for each other,” he concluded.

Watch the video here-

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The Men in Blue came out victorious against the West Indies, ultimately securing their place in the semifinals of the T20 World Cup 2026. They will now face England at the Wankhede on March 5.