India head coach Gautam Gambhir hailed finisher Rinku Singh for his commitment to the team for rejoining the camp after his father's death. Rinku had to fly back home on the eve of match against Zimbabwe as his father Khanchand Singh was on life support, battling Stage IV liver cancer at a hospital in Greater Noida. He rejoined for the Zimbabwe encounter but had to fly back home again when his father passed away.
Gambhir told Rinku that he is not alone and has support of the entire team.
"Guys, before I start. Rinku, it takes a lot of character to come and join the team. Remember one thing: you're not alone. The whole team is standing next to you during this hour, so stay strong," Gambhir said in the huddle before the virtual quarterfinal against West Indies at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.
Gambhir’s rousing speech to Team India
Rinku remained on the sidelines as Sanju Samson was given back his spot at the top. Gambhir motivated the troops, telling them to embrace the pressure instead of crumbling beneath it. He reminded them that these are the kind of games player strive for.
"Guys, there's going to be pressure. One thing is very clear: make sure that we don't hide away from the pressure. We embrace it, we face it, and if at any time we feel we're under pressure, make sure we take the positive route," Gambhir said.
"Enjoy playing this game, this is what you play this game for, this sport for, this is what you've played all your life, games like this at home, a knockout kind of game, so make sure we go out there excited, not under any pressure."
The head coach also asked players to be brave and courageous. In addition, he wanted them to enjoy the moment.
"Anytime for the next 40 hours, if you feel the pressure, make sure we take the positive route. OK, be brave, be courageous. Enjoy it. Enjoy playing for the country, and most importantly, enjoying playing for each other," Gambhir added.
Samson rose to the occasion and scored an unbeaten 97 in the run chase to take India to the semifinal stage.
India are scheduled to go up against England in the second semifinal clash on March 5 at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.