Anil Kumble speaks out on his exit as India’s coach

Anil Kumble’s departure from India’s head coach position in 2017 is a bitter and controversial topic. It is believed that he and the Indian team captain Virat Kohli were not on the same page. The captain then ensured the leg-spinner’s exit from head coach’s position as India later appointed Ravi Shastri in the same role. Reviving the memories, Kumble said that the end could have been better.

Speaking to ESPN Cricinfo, Kumble said, “I was really happy that there were some contributions made and there are no regrets. I was happy moving on from there as well. I know the end could have been better but then that’s fine. As a coach, you realise when it’s time to move on; it’s the coach who needs to move on. I was really happy I played a significant role in that one year.”

During Kumble’s reign from June 2016 to 2017, India surged to the top of the Test rankings. They defeated West Indies in West Indies and won against New Zealand, England and Australia at home. It was India’s loss to Pakistan in the Champions Trophy 2017 final that eventually saw India’s highest wicket-taker ending his coaching stint.

Getting involved in the IPL, Kumble has joined Kings XI Punjab as director of cricket operations. He also chairs the ICC Cricket Committee, with still a year to go in his nine-year term.

“Kings XI Punjab haven’t been consistent in 12 seasons of the IPL, and it’s a challenge. I’m looking forward to being part of a dressing room again. I’m also towards the end of my term in the ICC Cricket Committee. It’s wonderful being part of the ICC, to keep yourself abreast of what is happening and to contribute in your own way is very special,” Kumble said.