XtraTime Web Desk: The India-Pakistan cricket rivalry is undoubtedly one of the biggest in the world of cricket. Only Ashes can come close to matching the Indo-Pak rivalry. Both the cricket crazy nations have seen some of the greatest cricketers to rule the world of cricket. But apart from the rivalry inside the cricket field, there have also been stories of mutual respect and admiration between cricketers of both nations.
Former Pakistan off-spinner Saqlain Mushtaq recently revealed how the legendary Anil Kumble helped him immensely in his career in getting in touch with a good optician.
“We were in England and I told Anil bhai that there are not many good opticians back home, so I am struggling and if he could suggest some ophthalmologists. So, he suggested that I go to Dr. Bharat Rugani. Even he said that he and [Sourav] Ganguly consult him often. He gave me the [contact] number of the doctor and I visited him in Harley Street (in London),” Saqlain said in an interview to Sportstar.
The Pak off spinner was struggling with his eye-sight as he had a cataract. He only came to know about it once meeting the ophthalmologist suggested by Kumble.
“The doctor checked my eyes and gave me lenses. I had cataract, the vision power was cylindrical and also the eyes were weak. I had consulted many doctors in Pakistan and none could treat it. So, it was Anil bhai who would help me get in touch with the doctor. It was because of him that I could recover. He is a gem of a person,” said Saqlain.
The former Pakistan off spinner can never forget the gesture from Kumble who he thinks was like an elder brother to him.
According to Saqlain, “Our culture has taught us to respect elders and Anil bhai is just like my elder brother. Whenever we meet, we have good chats. Even during playing days, you could walk up to him and seek suggestions in middle of a series. He would help you with necessary tips and would never misguide it. I have a lot of respect for him.”