Would be surprised if India don't win the series: Sunil Gavaskar

Legendary Indian batsman Sunil Gavaskar who celebrates his 67th birthday today said that he would be surprised if India didn’t win the Test series against West Indies.

When asked about his prediction for the 4-match Test series Gavaskar said, “I am not a fortune-teller to predict the outcome, but I would be surprised if India doesn’t win the series,”

Speaking about his family, he said that his mother is going to complete 91 years on Independence Day. He also said that without the support from the family, his life would have been nothing. “Without their love and support, life would be nothing. I am also blessed by the affection of many well-wishers who keep sending me their good wishes and greetings so many years after my retirement.” he said in an interview with mid-day.

He feels that he is lucky to get Amitabh Bachchan’s and Kapil Dev’s wish every year on his birthday. “These two legends and good friends unfailingly contact and wish me on my birthday every year. I am truly lucky to get theirs and many others’ wishes every year.”

Also read – 22 Facts about Sunil Gavaskar: The Little Master

When asked whether the appointment Anil Kumble as India’s head coach surprise him, Gavaskar said that every cricketer wants to serve the game in some capacity after the retirement and Anil will be doing the same now. “I am not surprised at Anil applying for the job. Even though a cricketer retires from international cricket he still wants to serve the game in some capacity and Anil will be doing that now with the same distinction and determination that he brought to his cricket.”

He said that there are no issues with India touring West Indies without a bowling coach as it is Kumble’s call to decide on how to spread the responsibilities. He is also okay with the appointment of Kumble for just one year since, every job there is a trial period after which there is an extension, and he is sure that it will happen with the former leggie as well.

Why does he think Ravi Shastri was removed after one-and-a-half year whereas Duncan Fletcher, who didn’t have great success with the team was around for 4 years? Gavaskar replied, “Ravi did a terrific job and lifted the morale and psyche of a defeated team with his gung-ho approach and never-give-up attitude. And that can be seen not just in the results of the team but also the positivity that they radiated on and off the field. His has been a huge contribution to the development of this young team.”

Also read – Career timeline of the ‘Little Master’ – Sunil Gavaskar

He said that he is inching to be at the commentary box at Trinidad as he considers it as his second home. “Ever since my debut in Trinidad, I have considered it as my second home. So yes, I am looking forward to going there again.”

The former Indian skipper also added that the Champions League would have been more interesting than the mini IPL. “A mini IPL would be interesting, but the Champions League would be infinitely more interesting,” Gavaskar concluded.