Gambhir took part in 'the speech' ahead of India's T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final clash against England to be played at the iconic Wankhede Stadium on Sunday. Before the start of the speech, Gambhir gave a heartfelt message to Rinku.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cGuys, before I start, Rinku, it takes a lot of character to come and join the team. Remember one thing, you are not alone. The whole team is standing next to you during this hour, so stay strong,\u201d Gambhir said in a video shared by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Rinku\u2019s father, Khanchand, passed away on Friday after a long battle with liver cancer. He was admitted to Yatharth Hospital in Greater Noida on February 21 after his condition became serious and was on ventilator support before he died early Friday morning.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
After hearing the news, Rinku left the team to be with his family and perform the last rites. He later returned to the squad before the Super 8 match against the West Indies cricket team on Sunday.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
However, he was not included in the playing XI for that match, with Sanju Samson keeping his place in the team. Rinku also missed the earlier match against Zimbabwe.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
After hearing the news, Rinku left the team to be with his family and perform the last rites. He later returned to the squad before the Super 8 match against the West Indies cricket team on Sunday.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
He also has a modest record against England. In three matches against the Harry Brook-led side, he has scored 39 runs in three innings, hitting five fours and one six.<\/p>\r\n\r\n