Rinku Singh for KKR Captaincy? Ex-India star says ‘Invest a little in him’ after UPT20 triumph

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have been urged to look within their existing squad for their next captain, with former India batter Suresh Raina backing Rinku Singh for the leadership role ahead of the IPL 2027 season.

Raina’s comments came after Rinku led the Meerut Mavericks to the UPT20 League title, defeating Lucknow Falcons by 94 runs in the final at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow. The triumph further highlighted Rinku’s leadership credentials after he guided Meerut through the tournament.

Speaking to the Jio Hotstar after the final, Raina suggested that KKR should invest in Rinku and give him an opportunity to develop as a captain. Rinku had served as KKR’s vice-captain during the 2026 IPL season, with Ajinkya Rahane leading the side.

“Firstly, congratulations to Captain Rinku Singh. This is the fourth season of the UP T20 League, and they are playing in the fourth final,” Raina said.

He then backed the left-hander to take charge of KKR, adding, “KKR is looking for a captain, but I think the franchise has finally gotten its captain. Invest a little in him, give him some matches, and you never know.”

Raina’s endorsement comes at a time when KKR are expected to identify a new leader following Rahane’s retirement from international and IPL cricket. The franchise has also been linked with Hardik Pandya, although there is no confirmation of a potential move.

The success adds another dimension to Rinku’s profile as he continues to establish himself as one of India’s prominent finishers. However, his international future has recently come under scrutiny after he was left out of India’s squad for the upcoming series against Afghanistan.

Can Rinku Singh be the next KKR Captain?

Why not! The southpaw is having a stellar run at the UP T20 league with his captaincy, and can replicate the same for KKR as well. With Ajinkya Rahane’s retirement, the door has opened for Rinku, and if KKR management oblizes, he can lead the Knight Riders in the IPL next year.

Rinku has been part of the Knight Riders setup for a long time now, and has been a key contributor for the side in the past 3-4 seasons.