Date:23/08/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/08/23/stories/2008082356161600.htm

Sport

Don’t be harsh on seniors: Kumble

Special Correspondent

MUMBAI: Anil Kumble, brand ambassador for ING Vysya Bank, said the contribution of senior cricketers should be taken into consideration in debates about their utility to the Test side.

Referring to queries about the form of Rahul Dravid, Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly and V.V.S. Laxman in the away series against Sri Lanka, Kumble said: “This was the first series they could not perform. I feel it is too harsh on them since they have been performing over the last decade.”

Kumble wondered why Laxman’s name is being discussed in the same breath as the other struggling seniors. “It is not fair to include Laxman in that list since he performed well. Sourav and Rahul were having it tough, but you cannot write them off. They have done so much for Indian cricket in the last 15 years. Agreed they failed in this Test series but it happens in cricket. We should not forget their past contribution,” said the long-serving spinner.

Ajantha Mendis foxed established batsmen in the series, despite their collective experience and comfort level against spin.

Exceptional bowler

Mendis is an exceptional bowler and is certain to surprise opponents with accuracy, variety and trajectory,” said Kumble.

“One must give credit to Murali since he maintains the pressure from the other end. It is quite vital for any fresh bowler.”

Kumble asked Mendis to continue improving so that he doesn’t become predictable. “I knew that if I kept improving and added several variations, I would be able to dominate batsmen. Mendis will also go through such a stage when he would have to add a few tricks and variations so that he does not become predictable.”

Kumble, 37, emphasised about evolving as a bowler over a period of time to be successful at the highest level. “From the moment I started, I did not spin the ball much, but I had variations and one needs to capture wickets to remain in the team. I bowl according to my strength.”

India’s progress

He was talking at a media briefing organised by ING Vysya Bank. Answering queries about India’s progress as a Test side after the reverses against Lanka, the Indian skipper said: “We were a bit unlucky this time but will try to give our best in coming series. There is a month left now before Australia comes in and we need to have match practice and gain some confidence.”