Jan. 4: Cricketer-turned administrator Anil Kumble has finally bid adieu to the game. Having played at the highest level for close to 19 years before retiring from international cricket, Kumble continued to ply his wares on the lucrative Indian Premier League for two more years.
But with just four days to go for the IPL-4 auctions, Kumble, 40, one of the three Indians to command the highest base price of $400,000, opted to pull out of the auction, citing business commitments. Kumble, who played under Rahul Dravid in the first season before taking over the captaincy from Kevin Pietersen in the second, led them admirably, guiding them to the final in IPL-2 before finishing third best last season.
But ever since the genial leggie plunged into the Karnataka State Cricket Association polls, there has been an element of doubt over his availability. Sweeping the elections en route to taking over as KSCA president with former team-mate Javagal Srinath becoming the secretary, it was but inevitable that Kumble would switch over to a new role.
Also the fact that Royal Challengers chose to retain only Virat Kohli may have forced Kumble’s hand, despite commanding the highest price (Rs 1.8 cr) at the auction. But the former Indian captain was quick to downplay the suggestions.
“I am not bitter or angry with how I’ve been treated, this is my decision only. I have a lot of responsibilities and that’s why I am not going to play anymore.”
In his new role, Kumble will continue to work with the Challengers as their Chief Mentor, a job befitting his stature.
“It is fabulous to see the Royal Challengers team shaping up for season four of IPL. I am excited to take on the mentoring role for Royal Challengers. At the same time, the task involves huge responsibility to better the benchmarks that Royal Challengers have already created in the last two seasons.” “I am into administration, I have my business, I have a lot on my plate. I thought it was best to concentrate on the management part of it.”
RCB owner Vijay Mallya said: “I sincerely believe Anil’s presence in the RCB leadership team will provide a fresh dimension and perspective to our IPL strategy in the medium and long term. We look forward to Anil’s contribution.”