Kumble is a well-respected Individual: Sujith Somasundar

Former India opening batsman and Karnataka Ranji player Sujith Somasundar has come out in full praise of the BCCI for appointing his former teammate Anil Kumble to the coaching role of the Indian cricket team. The official announcement was made by BCCI president Anurag Thakur on the 23rd of June marking the start of the 42-year old Kumble’s tenure as Team India head coach.

Somasundar also added that Kumble was the obvious choice simply because he was capable and a well-respected individual. “It is the right choice simply because he is a capable, well-respected individual,” the 43-year-old said.

“As a captain of India, he excelled in the tough tour of Australia in 2008. The team needs somebody of that stature now. Being an engineer, he is a good strategist and an organized individual,” said the 43-year-old.

Somasundar also touched upon some of the moment’s in Anil Kumble’s career when he showed immense character to focus and showcase his determination.

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“He has the ability to let go of the past and focus on the result. He lays emphasis on the job at hand and looks to get it done. This is an important quality. Against the Windies in 2002, he realized his job was to bowl for India. He could have easily focused on his injury and the consequences of bowling with a broken jaw but he didn’t,” said Somasundar.

The former Indian opening batsman also added that despite the discipline of the man, it will be a big challenge simply because all eyes will be on him.

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“He is a well-respected individual simply because of how he has conducted himself and how he has worked hard and performed for India. In terms of emotional quotient, I have observed that he is one who respects others and accepts people the way they are. These traits will come in handy,” he added.

“It is a big challenge because all eyes are on him and an Indian team.”

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