Three-time IPL champion Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) has appointed Rinku Singh As their vice-captain ahead of the Indian Premier League 2026. KKR CEO and Managing Director Venky Mysore confirmed the development during a pre-season event on Tuesday, March 24.
Rinku is stepping into the role that was previously held by Venkatesh Iyer, who was released by the franchise ahead of the auction. Although the left-handed batsman has not captained the T20 team yet, he has been a consistent presence for KKR since making his IPL debut in 2018. Rinku, known for his finishing ability in the middle order, is expected to get bigger responsibility, especially after the retirement of Andre Russell, who has now taken up the role of KKR's power coach.
KKR head coach Abhishek Nair praised Rinku's development in the setup.
“I think it's quite fitting because my first memory of coming to KKR and being part of the support staff was working with Rinku Singh. Over the last few years, we have seen Rinku Singh grow not only as a cricketer but also as a leader. Over the last few years, while his performances have spoken for themselves, I think without saying too much off the field, he is someone the team looks up to [hearing]Nair said during the programme.
He also highlighted the need for Rinku to take additional responsibility in the new setup.
“We wanted, with the big power-hitters [Russell] gone, we wanted a little more responsibility on Rinku's shoulders and I think after becoming a World Cup champion it is the right time for him to take that responsibility and help Ajinkya Rahane take the reins,” he continued.
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Rinku has scored 1099 runs for KKR in 59 matches at an excellent strike rate of 145.17. He was also part of the India team that won the T20 World Cup on home soil, further cementing his rise as a key player for the team.
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