Bangalore, June 05: Keen to put behind the disappointment of being overlooked for most part of the World Cup in South Africa, ace leg-spinner Anil Kumble today said he was looking forward to the upcoming home series against New Zealand. "It's a long time before we start international cricket....That's in September-October. I am looking forward to it (New Zeland series)," he told reporters after inaugurating World Environment Day celebrations at the upmarket Commercial Street here.
Asked if he would be available for the New Zealand series, he replied, "Yes. What makes you think that I won't be there. It's a long-break. So, I am really enjoying this.”
"We (Indian team) have a long break now. I have just come back from a holiday abroad. It's good to be spending sometime with the family," said Kumble, who was overlooked in preference for a seventh batsman in the World Cup. Unlike many of the cricketers in the national side, Kumble does not have any plans to play in the English county cricket. "No plans..Nothing", he said.
Kumble refrained from giving his views when asked to comment on spinners' panel, comprising some of India's legendary spinners, recommending that no limited overs cricket should be played up to the Under-17 level.
“I was not in town...I was away. I was supposed to be part of the team but I was not in India then. I don't know what went up. I am not aware of that," he said. Meanwhile, emphasising the need for protecting environment, Kumble favoured introduction of CNG and battery-operated vehicles, pointing out that the Delhi model "has really worked well" in reducing pollution. Bureau Report