Anil Kumble rates R Ashwin as the best spinner in world cricket

Former India skipper and leg-spinner Anil Kumble has praised off-spinner R Ashwin and called him the premier spinner in world cricket at the moment. Anil Kumble also expressed his hope of India winning the World T20. Kumble remains India’s most successful bowler ever by picking up more than 950 international wickets across both Tests and ODIs.

Speaking on the sidelines of a training program related to his cricket academy ‘Tenvic’, the 45-year old said, “He (Ashwin) is really capable. Probably he is the number one spinner in the world and performed well over the years.” R Ashwin is the only Indin bowler to be ranked inside the top ten across all the 3 formats, currently. His performances in the mega event will be vital to the team’s chances on the spinner-friendly surfaces at home.

“The World Cup is round the corner and I am hoping that India will bring the cup,” Kumble added. Sharing his experiences on the rivalry between India and Pakistan, Kumble felt that it was important to focus on the on-field performances rather than on the hype surrounding the contest. Replying to a question about playing against Pakistan, he said whenever India played against anyone, “We played for the cause of the team.”

On Thursday, Rohit Sharma renewed his love affair with the Eden Gardens by scoring an unbeaten 98 that took India to India 185 for 6 in 20 overs. Playing the first warm-up match against the West Indies, India won by 45 runs and set the tone for the group league match against Pakistan slated at the same venue on March 19.