'Shy' Anil Kumble Wants to Do a Gary Kirsten, John Wright as India's Head Coach

He may not have much of experience in coaching but Anil Kumble will take a leaf out of Gary Kirsten and John Wright's books when he takes charge of the Indian cricket team as the head coach during the West Indies tour in July-August.

Most top coaches across the world tend to work behind the scenes and Kumble would have picked up a few lessons when Wright was India coach.

More recently, South African Kirsten always stayed behind the spotlight that Team India players garnered, especially after the 2011 World Cup win at home.

Kumble has always been a shy person, preferring to stay away from media spotlight. As a member of the Mumbai Indians coaching staff, India's highest wicket-taker loved to stay behind the likes of Ricky Ponting and Jonty Rhodes.

With Virat Kohli and Company, Kumble will have a similar approach - to drive the team with his huge technical knowledge but from the sanctity of the dressing room.

"It is a huge responsibility. I have always put my hands up for any sort of challenge. The coach's role is in the background, it's the players who come first and that would be my approach," Kumble said, after being named head coach on Thursday.

Kumble, a veteran of 132 Tests, will be head coach for a one-year tenure. India have a packed programme - mostly Test matches -- at home during this period.

"The strategy will be to win. There is still time to think about all that and sit with the players. I have a short and long-term plan for the upcoming series (against West Indies), but I cannot plan alone; I also need players to pitch in."

The 45-year-old is aiming to clinch the upcoming Test series against the Windies.

"It is a bit early to speak on all that. Yes there is a certain plan. Obviously there is an immediate series coming up against the West Indies, and our aim is to win," he said.

(With PTI inputs)