Legendary Leg Spinner Celebrates His 18th Anniversary Today
Debasis Sen, Hyderabad: Former India legendary leg-spinner Anil Kumble, on Tuesday, celebrated the 18th anniversary of taking a ‘Perfect Ten’ against Pakistan at the Feroz Shah Kotla on February 07, 1999. With 10/74 in 26.3 overs, Kumble became only the second bowler in the history of Test cricket, after England’s Jim Laker, to bag a ‘Perfect Ten’. It was his spell that gave India a comprehensive 212 runs win over arch rival Pakistan at Kotla.
Kumble, who is now the coach of Indian team looked in a pleasant mood during the practice session of the Indian team at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Uppal. He was seen having a chat with Indian captain Virat Kohli near the wicket.
Reminiscing the chain of the events of that historic day, Kumble termed it as a destiny.
“I don’t think I had ever thought 18 years ago I was going to pick ten wickets. It was one of those things that happened. It’s nice to celebrate anniversaries of cricketing milestones.”
On being asked whether such a feat can be repeated, the present coach of Indian team said, “If it happens it can happen tomorrow, it can happen ten years down the line. I don’t think anybody gave me a chance. It’s a very rare occurring and I was blessed to be a part of that. It’s something that’s very unique. I am glad that people remember cricketing anniversaries which is very rare.”
He further added that he not only remembered the ‘perfect ten’ against Pakistan but all his 619 test wickets.
“Yeah, of course, I remember all the 600+ wickets as well,” as he signed off.