Anil Kumble is an unconventional spinner known for minimal turn but with that also he was one of India’s greatest match-winners, holding the record for the most Test victories by an Indian bowler. His tenacity on the field and composed humility off it earned him immense respect from fans and teammates alike. Some consider Kumble as cricket’s last gentleman.
In 2007, following Rahul Dravid’s resignation, Kumble assumed the captaincy of the Indian Test team. Leading India to a series victory against Pakistan and exhibiting diplomatic skills during the 2007-08 Australia tour, especially amid the ‘Monkeygate’ scandal, highlighted his leadership qualities. Additionally, Kumble captained the Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2009, steering them to the final.
Upon retiring before the 2011 IPL auctions, Kumble took on the mentorship role for the Bangalore franchise, contributing to their runner-up finish in the 2011 IPL edition. Not only with the bowl but also with the bat, the legendary Indian leg spinner has played 271 One Day Internationals. Out of these 271 matches, he has scored 938 runs and taken 337 wickets. The 53-year-old spinner averages 30.9 and has an economy of 4.31. Let us now look at top three performances from Kumble;
1. 6/12 vs West Indies in Kolkata in 1993
The historic feat unfolded at the iconic Eden Gardens, the Mecca of Indian cricket, during the final of the multinational Hero Cup. In a clash against the West Indies, India posted 225 runs within their allotted overs. The stage was set for Anil Kumble’s remarkable display as the leg-spinner dismantled the West Indies’ batting lineup, delivering the then-best bowling performance by an Indian in ODIs. His remarkable figures of 6 for 12 captivated the capacity crowd, leading India to a resounding 102-run victory. This outstanding performance held the record until the previous year when all-rounder Stuart Binny claimed figures of 6 for 4 against Bangladesh.
2. 5/33 vs New Zealand in Wellington in 1994
An outstanding display by Kumble occurred when India visited New Zealand in March 1994. In the 3rd ODI, India set a target of 255 runs. New Zealand, in response, was in a strong position at 5 for 216, needing another 40 runs to win. However, Kumble intervened, taking three of the last five wickets, crucially dismissing Shane Thomson and Adam Parore. His stellar performance secured India a narrow 12-run victory. With match figures of 5 for 33, Kumble earned the well-deserved title of Man of the Match in this closely contested encounter.
3. 4/12 vs Pakistan in Toronto in 1996
In the inaugural Sahara Cup at Toronto in 1996, Anil Kumble delivered another exceptional performance against arch-rivals Pakistan. India, batting first, posted a modest 191. Pakistan struggled early, losing three wickets with just 16 runs on the board. Saeed Anwar and Saleem Malik initiated a comeback, but Kumble’s prowess in the middle overs dismantled their middle-order. His four crucial wickets played a pivotal role as India secured a convincing 55-run victory in the low-scoring match. Despite not receiving the Man of the Match award, Kumble’s bowling performance played a decisive role in scripting India’s triumph.