How The Son Of An LPG Cylinder Seller Bagged An ₹80-Lakh IPL Deal Is Inspiring

Brave are the people who have the courage to chase their dreams. But it is even more courageous of them to pursue their dreams when the responsibility of the family’s livelihood falls on their frail shoulders.

Rinku Singh, a 20-year-old young cricketer from Aligarh got picked up by Shah Rukh Khan’s Kolkata Knight Riders for Indian Premier League, against all odds, at a staggering amount of ₹80 lakh.

According to The Indian Express, he hails from a family of 9, his father is an LPG cylinder delivery-man and his mother is a homemaker. His brother drives an auto-rickshaw and another brother works at a coaching centre.

About 3 years ago, Rinku’s family was under a debt of ₹5 lakh. Rinku himself failed his ninth standard and quit studying after that.

As per a report by Hindustan Times, he started playing cricket in 2009, got selected for UP Under-16 team in 2012 and played for the UP Under-19 team in 2013. In 2014, he played for the Vijay Hazare trophy and the Ranji Trophy in 2016.

Whatever little money he earned from his representation in the U19 team and other teams, he saved it all and gave it to his family for repaying their debt. The family started having faith in his cricket career only when he won a motorcycle for being the man of the match in a Delhi tournament.

When the auction was taking place on television, Rinku was at home. He expected to be bid for ₹40 lakh, but to his and everyone else in his family’s surprise, he was chosen by KKR for ₹80 lakh. He said,

“My domestic season had gone fine and I was hoping that someone might take me but never thought I will go for such a huge money. Mere khaandan mein itna paisa kisene bhi nahi dekha hai (No one in my entire family has seen so much money).”

Last year, Kings XI Punjab had roped him in for ₹10 lakh, but he, unfortunately, did not get to get off the benches. Mumbai Indians then called him for a selection trial where he scored a surprising 91 runs off of 31 balls.

Rinku’s family is undoubtedly ecstatic about his selection and their joy is visible in their tears. And just like them, we too are really happy; not just because we see another star in the making, but because another young talent will get a chance to be recognised and rewarded.

Rinku Singh’s selection to IPL just sets an example for all of us to chase our own dreams, even in the face of adversities. Despite being from a lower financial background, lack of education and appropriate training since childhood, Rinku managed to achieve his goals through and through. If he can do it, what’s your excuse?