The legendary Indian leg-spin bowler and former Head Coach of Team India, Anil Kumble has given a bold statement ahead of the clash between two arch-rivals India-Pakistan ahead of the World Cup 2023.
Anil Kumble, known for his remarkable achievements against Pakistan, has shared insights about the significance of facing this Asian rival and its resonance with the fans. The former Indian leg-spinner emphasized that it’s crucial to approach matches against Pakistan like any other game.
The former India captain has an outstanding record against Pakistan in both Tests and ODIs, having taken 81 wickets from 15 Tests, including snaring all 10 wickets in an innings (10/74) in 1999 at New Delhi. In 34 ODIs against Pakistan, Kumble has grabbed 54 wickets.
Remarkably, the last bilateral series between India and Pakistan took place during the 2012-2013 season. Since then, these two Asian powerhouses have mainly clashed in ICC events or the Asia Cup. In the current year, there’s a chance for multiple confrontations between the two teams.
Their first encounter in 2023 will be during the Asia Cup on September 2. They could cross paths again if they advance further. Additionally, the fierce rivals are set to meet once more in the upcoming ODI World Cup on October 14 in Ahmedabad.
“In our times, the word was ‘lose even to Kenya but not to Pakistan’. There was pressure and expectation on the players. That’s how the matches between India and Pakistan are being played and the key is to treat it as just another match,” Kumble said at the launch of Pitchside, the memoir written by experienced cricket administrator Amrit Mathur.
The function was also attended by former India batter and the current NCA chief VVS Laxman and former India wicketkeeper Syed Kirmani.
The 10-wicket haul against Pakistan is still a much-cherished moment for Kumble.
“I did not go onto the field thinking of a 10-wicket haul, though that is the dream of any bowler.”
“However, in the next Test match against Pakistan, the Asian Test Championship at Kolkata, I was struggling to take even one wicket. That is the game of cricket for you,” he further said.
In the match at Eden Gardens in February 1999, Kumble finished with figures of 1 for 139. Unfortunately, Pakistan won the game by 46 runs.
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