Fans disappointed as Virat Kohli stayed away from the internet on Anil Kumble's birthday

One of the greatest match winners of Indian cricket Anil Kumble celebrated his 47th birthday yesterday (October 17). Former cricketers and the current crops from around the world wished Kumble on the auspicious day.  But one name which was missing from the list was of Indian skipper Virat Kohli. The feud between Kohli and then coach Kumble is no new story but the cricket fans expected the Indian captain to send across his warm wishes.

Well, this was not the only unexpected event that occurred. The BCCI faced criticism upon wishing Kumble on his birthday. BCCI tweeted ‘ Here’s wishing former #TeamIndia bowler Anil Kumble very happy birthday’. The tweet was taken in a very bad taste as the official twitter handle of the BCCI could have hailed one of the finest cricketers of world cricket.

Kumble, the former Indian coach, has picked 619 wickets in Test cricket and 337 sticks in ODIs. He has also scored a famous Test hundred against England in England apart from fetching five fifties. The BCCI had to delete the tweet and posted one more, this time addressing Kumble as the former Indian captain.

After stepping down from the post of head coach, Kumble took a parting shot at captain Kohli and shared his resignation letter in public. He had said that the relation between him and Kohli was ‘untenable’, and therefore moving on was the best option.

Kumble’s resignation letter

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 of Indian cricket for their continued support. I will remain a well-wisher of the great cricketing tradition of my country forever.