Kolkata, April 19 (NationPress) Rinku Singh, the vice-captain of the Kolkata Knight Riders, attributed his match-winning performance to a composed and strategic mindset. His objective was to keep the game competitive, which led KKR to secure their inaugural victory of the IPL 2026 season by overcoming the Rajasthan Royals by four wickets at Eden Gardens on Sunday.

Entering during a challenging phase of the chase, Rinku anchored the innings, maintaining stability despite losing teammates around him, ultimately guiding KKR to success with a solid half-century.

Discussing his intensity on the field, Rinku clarified that it arose from the context of the match rather than any personal frustration.

“At times, when things don’t unfold as planned, you feel that intensity. However, I wasn’t hesitant or uncertain about executing my shots. My aim was to carry the game to the end, as I had discussions with the coach and my batting partner. The strategy was to take it deep given the tricky situation,” he explained post-match.

The left-handed batsman also faced an early challenge in his innings but acknowledged that it could have swung either way. He remarked, “That’s how it can be, sir. In those moments, your mind can play tricks, leading to poor shot selection. Luckily, fate was on my side, and we clinched the victory.”

After a series of low scores earlier this season, Rinku recognized the significance of this innings for his confidence.

“I had been waiting for a significant performance after several innings. This innings was vital for my confidence and quite fulfilling,” he stated.

Rinku’s contribution was pivotal for KKR, who were under duress following a string of losses and a shaky start to their chase. His partnership with Anukul Roy proved crucial, as they absorbed pressure before accelerating towards the end of the innings.

Highlighting his adaptable batting role, Rinku stated, “I don’t have a fixed batting position. I can bat at number five, lower down the order, or even at number four—whatever the team necessitates, I’m prepared to step up.”

This victory was a crucial turning point for KKR, who had faced a winless streak before this match. Rinku expressed optimism that this result would ignite a positive shift in their campaign. “This will boost our confidence significantly, as it marks our first win of the season. We aim to carry this momentum forward,” concluded the 28-year-old.

KKR successfully chased down the target in a nail-biting finish, with Rinku’s unbeaten 53-run innings being the decisive factor in a match that fluctuated before the hosts maintained their composure in the final moments.