5 Indian captains of the 21st century and their contributions to Indian cricket

#3 Anil Kumble

Anil Kumble also was known as "Jumbo"

The sudden shocking announcement by the BCCI stating the resignation of Rahul Dravid saw Anil Kumble being appointed as the captain of the Test team. Though Kumble’s tenure was very short, it saw significant events taking place during his tenure and his handling of the same proved to be extremely beneficial for Indian cricket.

Anil Kumble was a stubborn captain who stood rock solid behind the team in crisis situations. He always put the team interests ahead of his individual goals. He was one of the most selfless and honest captains in Indian cricket.

His captaincy tenure started with a bang as he led India to a series victory against arch-rivals Pakistan in a 3 match Test series in India which India won 1-0. That was the last bilateral Test series that India and Pakistan have played till date.

One will always associate the name Anil Kumble for his mature handling of the situation during India‘s tour of Australia 2008. During the 4 match Test series, the first 2 matches were won by Australia and the third Test was won by the touring Indians.

It all came down to the wire in the second Test of the series at Sydney in 2008. The Sydney Test of 2008 is a Test India wish to forget from its cricketing chapters. The “Monkeygate” scandal rocked the Indian team during the tour and Anil Kumble, the captain, protected the Indian interest of the team by threatening to pull out midway from the tour due to the unacceptable allegations made by the opposition.

Kumble was particularly praised for his mature handling of the whole ugly incidents off the field that were taking place with cricket taking a backseat in the entire process.

Though he captained India for a very short period, India missed a genuine leader in the form of Anil Kumble in longer prospects but was blessed to witness whatever little it saw of Anil Kumble, the captain. He will always be remembered for this massive contribution to Indian cricket.