Rinku Singh Father Death: Shocking Post-Match Question Triggers Outrage

India had just sealed their highest successful T20 World Cup chase. Sanju Samson had scripted a 97 not out for the ages. Eden Gardens was still buzzing from the five-wicket win over West Indies that sent India into the semi-finals.

Then came a question that silenced the mixed zone. According to eyewitness accounts, a Kolkata-based journalist asked India assistant coach Sitanshu Kotak whether the death of Rinku Singh's father had been a "blessing in disguise" for the team.

The remark left those present stunned.

What happened to Rinku Singh father?

Rinku Singh had only just rejoined the squad days earlier after the passing of his father, Khanchand Singh, on February 27 following a battle with stage-four liver cancer. He had rushed home to perform the last rites before returning to Kolkata ahead of the must-win clash against West Indies.

India's victory on March 1 - powered by Samson's unbeaten 97 - secured a semi-final spot against England. It was meant to be a night of resilience and redemption.

Instead, attention shifted to the post-match media interaction.

Kushan Sarkar, who reported the incident, described it as a "face palm moment" for journalists covering the game. He stated that Kotak appeared visibly uncomfortable, unsure how to respond to what many in the room considered an insensitive and inappropriate query.

"This Is Inhuman": Industry rallies in support of Rinku Singh

The backlash was swift.

Veteran journalist Boria Majumdar called the comment "inhuman," saying it disgraced the profession. Others demanded accountability and urged the BCCI to intervene.

"Who allowed this journalist in the press box? Ban him immediately," wrote one fan.

Another added: "This is beyond pathetic. Just name and shame that journalist."

One social media user remarked that had such a question been directed at head coach Gautam Gambhir, the response might have been far more forceful.

The anger was not merely about poor phrasing. It was about empathy - or the lack of it. In elite sport, players are often expected to compartmentalise grief and performance. But to frame a personal tragedy as a competitive advantage crossed a line for many.