It's Time to Give Back to Indian Cricket, Says India Coach Anil Kumble
Anil Kumble, after being appointed as India's head coach, said he was always up for challenges. He added he would discuss his future plans with Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, VVS Laxman and Rahul Dravid
Highlights
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Anil Kumble was appointed India's new head coach for one year
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Kumble edged past 56 contenders including Ravi Shastri
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Kumble took 619 wickets in 132 Tests for India, and was also the captain
Anil Kumble, India's new head coach, on Thursday termed his appointment as a great honour, and added that it was a perfect opportunity for him to serve Indian cricket once again.
"I thought it was the right time to give back (to Indian cricket). I have always put my hand up for challenges. I am looking forward to my stint," said the 45-year-old former Test captain.
"It's great honour to be back In Indian dressing room. It's a huge responsibility."
Kumble's appointment as head coach for one year was announced by Board of Control for Cricket in India(BCCI) president Anurag Thakur during the cricket body's conclave in Dharamsala on Thursday.
The veteran leg-spinner was chosen ahead of 56 contenders including former Team India director Ravi Shastri, who had taken over the reins of Men in Blue, during India's tour of England in 2014.
A panel comprising batting greats Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly and VVS Laxman along with top BCCI officials had been entrusted with the task of appointing the next coach.
"Thanks to BCCI and the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) for showing faith in me. I am happy that some of the players I have played with were involved in the selection process. Sachin (Tendulkar), Sourav (Ganguly) and (VVS) Laxman were part of the CAC while Rahul Dravid is in charge of the junior teams," Kumble said.
"I need to discuss with them how to take Indian cricket forward," he added.
Kumble revealed that he took the decision to apply for the post after consulting his family. "I discussed with my family as I will have to be on the road for most part of the year. My wife has been very supportive. Once they agreed, I thought it was right time to join Indian cricket team again," he said.
In 132 Tests for India, Kumble took 619 wickets, most by any Indian bowler, while he snared 337 scalps in 271 ODIs.
He became the second bowler only after England's Jim Laker to take all ten wickets in a single innings of a Test in 1999.
He also led India in 14 Tests from 2007-08. His major achievements were the Test series win against Pakistan in 2007 and the victory against Australia at Perth in 2008.