'If I was KKR...,' Ravi Ashwin suggests what KKR need to do with Rinku Singh's batting order in IPL 2026

Ravichandran Ashwin has urged Kolkata Knight Riders to reassess Rinku Singh's batting position in IPL 2026. Currently deployed as a "death-overs specialist," Ashwin feels Rinku should bat at No. 4

Ashwin feels Rinku Singh should bat at No.4 for KKR in IPL 2026.

Ravichandran Ashwin has never been one to shy away from making bold tactical analysis. His latest analysis of one of the premier stars of the Indian Premier League, Rinku Singh, has caught the attention of many KKR fans. With the IPL 2026 approaching, the former spinner feels that three-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) need to rethink how they want to use Rinku Singh during the tournament, and the fans seem to agree with him on that as well.

Where should Rinku bat?

Since his breakout IPL 2023 season, Rinku Singh has been only used as a "death-overs specialist" for KKR, and somehow that has not worked that well for the left-handed batter.

Ashwin claims that this precise role has led to 'not so great' results in the last two seasons both for Rinku and KKR.

Last season, Rinku more often than not found himself with few balls to play or coming in during high-pressure collapses where he couldn't build momentum for the team.

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Ashwin’s solution?

Ashwin has a solution for this problem. He feels promoting Rinku to No. 4 will solve the issue for the franchise.

"If I was KKR, I would be saying Rinku Singh at No. 4... Post the six-over mark, Rinku Singh should be given such a chance where he can play for 4-5 overs, and then take on the bowlers," Ashwin commented on his YouTube channel.

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The Cameron Green conundrum

KKR’s massive investment in Cameron Green has created a selection headache for Abhishek Nayar and company.

While Green is naturally a top-three batter, Ashwin has suggested a flexible approach for the Aussie all-rounder.

As per Ashwin, if two early wickets fall, Green should be the one to go in to stabilise the inning within the powerplay and use the field restrictions to his advantage.

But if the openers provide a steady start, Rinku should be promoted to No. 4 to anchor the middle overs and then set the stage for a late-innings slog.

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