Kumble ‘quits’ as India coach

Contract expired

MUMBAI, June 20, (RTRS): Anil Kumble has stepped down as India coach after falling out with skipper Virat Kohli, a top source in the country’s cricket board told Reuters on Tuesday.

Kumble’s original contract expired with the team’s Champions Trophy campaign, but the former captain was tipped to get an extension after enjoying a successful run during his year in charge.

“While the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) had endorsed an extension to his tenure as head coach, Anil Kumble has decided not to continue as the coach,” the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said in a statement.

Last year the BCCI formed the CAC, comprising former players Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly and VVS Laxman, who chose Kumble for the job.

The source confirmed the 46-year-old Kumble, who was put in charge last June, decided to step down after the breakdown of his relationship with Kohli.

Local media has reported that Kohli found Kumble’s brand of coaching a bit too assertive and their relationship was beyond repair.

The BCCI invited applications for the role last month and Kumble had re-applied for the same.

“We wish to place on record our sincere appreciation for the immense contribution by Anil Kumble to the team which enabled India to attain the No.1 Test position,” acting BCCI secretary Amitabh Choudhary said in a statement.

“Indian cricket needs his continued contribution in various capacities and wishes him all the best in his future endeavour.”

In the last one year, the former leg-spinner, also India’s most successful bowler, led the country to 12 victories in 17 tests with just one loss.

Kumble