Since the inception of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2008, the competition has witnessed several rags to riches stories as franchises splurged big money on them. But an uncapped Rinku Singh who was not even a regular in the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) squad for last few years has set an example as he is set to unveil his dream project next month.
The Aligarh-born cricketer became a household name when he did the unthinkable by smashing Yash Dayal for five consecutive sixes and clinched a famous last-ball victory for KKR against defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT). The 25-year-old is not making huge money from his KKR contract (Rs 55 lakh) when compared to others but that didn't stop him from setting up a hostel for budding cricketers who dream of making it big but can't because of financial constraints.
Rinku had humble beginnings as his father Khanchandra Singh used to deliver LPG cylinders. Meanwhile, his two brothers Sonu and Mukul, did menial jobs to be helping hands of the family as an auto-rickshaw driver and mop floors of a coaching centre respectively.
All the tough times that Rinku went through, made him the kind of person he is today. He always wanted to help out the youngsters in any way possible and now his dream hostel is coming to life and will be operational from next month. "He always wanted to build a hostel for young players, who do not have financial resources to pursue their dreams. As he is financially sound now, he has decided to make it a reality," said childhood coach of Rinku, Masooduz-Zafar Amini.
In 2016, the left-handed batter made his Ranji debut and was initially picked by Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings) the following year. Then KKR paid Rs 80 lakhs to get hold of Rinku Singh. Meanwhile, Amini has been coaching the southpaw since 12-13 years now and has been a part of his ups and downs. Moreover, Amini currently runs Aligarh Cricket School and academy which is owned by the district association in an area over 15 acres.
"The work started around three months ago with Rinku watching the progress from close quarters before heading to join his team. The hostel will have 14 rooms and each one can accommodate four trainees. A shed and a pavilion are also being constructed. Separate toilets are also being constructed. These trainees can have food at the canteen being run at the place. It will cost around `50 lakh and the whole expenditure is being borne by Rinku," added the coach.
Currently, the academy candidates live in rented houses and are from nearby areas. One of the main objectives of the hostel is to provide accommodations to all of them at a minimal price. "Around a dozen of our trainees will shift to the hostel. Presently, they pay hefty rent but here they can get rooms and food at a marginal cost. Besides, they don't have to waste time and money on travel as well," the coach added.
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