Anil Kumble issues his statement after stepping down as Indian coach

Former India captain Anil Kumble today stepped down as the head coach of the team on the same day as he was supposed to fly with the squad to the West Indies where they play the next series. The Indian team reached the Caribbean but the coach stayed back since he had to attend an ICC meeting. Soon after, the news emerged that Kumble who was earlier seeking an extended term had stepped down.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed it while stating that they were advised by the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) to give Kumble an extension while the latter decided to no longer continue. In his statement, India’s most successful spinner said that it was an honour for him to be appointed the head coach and that he relished this opportunity and credited the Captain and the entire team for the success during his tenure.

Anil Kumble in his statement said:

I am honoured by the confidence reposed in me by the CAC, in asking me to continue as Head Coach. The credit for the achievements of the last one year goes to the Captain, the entire team, coaching and support staff.

Post this intimation, I was informed for the first time yesterday by the BCCI that the Captain had reservations with my ‘style’ and about my continuing as the Head Coach. I was surprised since I had always respected the role boundaries between Captain and Coach. Though the BCCI attempted to resolve the misunderstandings between the Captain and me, it was apparent that the partnership was untenable, and I therefore believe it is best for me to move on.

Professionalism, discipline, commitment, honesty, complementary skills and diverse views are the key traits I bring to the table. These need to be valued for the partnership to be effective. I see the Coach’s role akin to ‘holding a mirror’ to drive self-improvement in the team’s interest.

In light of these ‘reservations’, I believe it is best I hand over this responsibility to whomever the CAC and BCCI deem fit.

Let me reiterate that it has been an absolute privilege to have served as Head Coach for the last one year. I thank the CAC, BCCI, CoA and all concerned.

I also wish to thank the innumerable followers and fans of Indian cricket for their continued support. I will remain a well-wisher of the great cricketing tradition of my country forever.

-Anil Kumble

The BCCI in its official statement had earlier said:

Mr. Amitabh Choudhary, Acting Secretary of the BCCI, said: “We wish to place on record our sincere appreciation for the immense contribution by Anil Kumble to the team which enabled India to attain the No.1 Test position. Indian cricket needs his continued contribution in various capacities and wishes him all the best in his future endeavour.”