Anil Kumble is more than just the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) mentor. In fact, he’s the one who suggested to the Vijay Mallya-owned franchise that Chris Gayle be taken on board as replacement for Dirk Nannes.
Not like for like, but Kumble knows a thing or two about performers.
Gayle made his RCB debut on Friday and took the franchise which didn’t retain him, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), to the cleaners. In doing so, the West Indies’ former captain became the IPL’s 15th centurion.
His 102 not out, which earned the MoM award, came off 55 deliveries (10x4, 7x6).
Typically, Kumble, who got the Test captaincy towards the end of his distinguished career, chose to play down his role when The Telegraph contacted him an hour after RCB’s thumping win.
“We know what Gayle is capable of... Once he was available, I did suggest that we sign him,” Kumble said, pleased that the Jamaican had delivered despite the jet lag.
Clearly, the West Indies selectors have done RCB a big favour and, equally, great disservice to the nine other franchises. After all, had Gayle not been overlooked for the ongoing series against Pakistan, he wouldn’t have been part of the good times brigade.
LInk