The Indian cricket team that toured England in August 19990 comprised a young spinner who held much promise. The great Allan Lamb failed to read him and became Kumble’s first test victim. But no one ever expected Anil Kumble last so long considering the fact that he was a leg-spinner only in words. In reality he bowled at speeds of 95Kmph, almost comparable to any Indian fast bowler.
Now after playing international cricket for almost 17 years to the day, Anil Kumble, “Jumbo” to team mates has decided to hang his boots. Kumble, 36, is India’s most successful bowler in both forms of the game. Most memorable of his spells include the ten-wickets in an innings against Pakistan at New Delhi and a match-winning twelve runs for six wickets against West Indies in the Hero Cup final in 1993.
Kumble was no muck with the bat either. Many a time he stood at the crease when the team needed him most. The 2007 World Cup, Kumble’s fourth was to be his crowning glory. He wanted to help India reach as far as they could. But alas he never got the opportunity. Kumble was in the team that outclassed Bermuda but was sidelined for Harbhajan Singh for the more important matches against Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. Surely Dravid and Co. could have given him a better send off.
It is cliche to say that Kumble will be dearly missed, by team and fans alike. All good things come to an end and so has Anil Kumble’s career.
Related Links: Kumble’s website