Kohli-Kumble need to work on overseas record: Adam Gilchrist

Legendary Australian wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist has hailed the appointment of former Indian leg-spinner Anil Kumble. However, Gilchrist also added that the appointment would see Kumble strap onto an important responsibility. In spite of having clinched the series against the West Indies thus far, the former Aussie custodian believes that it would be important for Kumble to stitch wins in overseas conditions. In recent times, the Indians have been extremely poor overseas and have lost a plethora of series including ones against South Africa, Australia, and England.

“It’s a fine appointment. He (Kumble) is a respected player and person who will guide the team in the right direction,” Gilchrist told IANS in an exclusive interview in Mumbai.

“The Kumble-Kohli combination has every chance of getting and retaining number 1 spot (Test). Their key focus will be on improving their overseas record; there are already positive signs of this from the win in West Indies,” he added.

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Adam Gilchrist also stated that there would be no reason for MS Dhoni to step down from the position as skipper of the Indian limited-overs’ sides.”There is no rush in Kohli taking over captaincy (in all formats). Whilst MSD is still there, there is no reason for him to stand down. It’s a matter of time for Virat,” he said. “MSD-definitely yes,” he added when asked if Dhoni can continue playing.

At the moment, Adam Gilchrist is serving as a brand ambassador for ‘Friend of Australia’ and has also said that he would like more Indians to make the trip down to Australia. “Being a ‘Friend of Australia’, I get the opportunity to share my own personal stories to inspire travel enthusiasts to visit Australia. I am here to do my bit to inspire and drive Indian tourists to experience Australia and am honoured to be the chosen advocate of Australia in helping strengthen tourism ties between our two countries. Having spent so much of my cricketing career playing in India, I have gotten to understand the important bond Australia has with India,” he said.

“As far as experiences (are concerned), Australia as a country pretty much has all to offer. Pristine beaches, scenic landscapes, fine cuisine, vineyards, quality snowfields, iconic attractions can experience a bit of everything. Destinations such as Hamilton Island, Hayman Island, Kangaroo Island, Uluru, and Tasmania have seen an increased traction among the mid-aged affluent Indians,” Gilchrist signed off.

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