The Hindu : Sport : India has the talent and experience

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Thursday, Nov 22, 2007
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India has the talent and experience

Beginning the journey at Kotla is special, writes Anil Kumble

— Photo: S. Subramanium

SEASONED CAMPAIGNER: V.V.S. Laxman has got the nod ahead of Yuvraj Singh.

Life has definitely changed in the last 10 days or so.

Whatever people might say about the circumstances of getting the captaincy, I have to say it’s a good feeling, a proud feeling to be India’s skipper.

And to begin my captaincy at the Kotla, which has been dear to me right from my under-19 days, is special.

Ideally, I’d like to develop a team ethic that those who follow can build on down the road. What I’m looking at is a team document of sorts that everyone contributes to, one that will have goals and a team ethic that will combine practicality and the spirit of our cricket.

The whole point here is to ensure that any cricketer, whether a youngster playing under-15 cricket or a gully-cricketer dreaming of India colours, will know that these are the values, the reasons he has to play for India.

Broad ideals

At this point of time, while I do not want to go into details of this document, there are a few broad ideals I can highlight. Like selflessness, or putting the team above self in any and every way.

Or, a commitment to the cause of the team and the country; a fighting spirit and fearlessness whatever the situation, whatever the obstacles ahead.

Then, a clear mind as to what our approach would be. For instance, everyone makes mistakes along the line, but if you’re clear about why you’re making those mistakes and identify the weaknesses and work on eliminating them it helps.

There is a need for clear planning and strategy.

Coming back to this first Test and my team, it’s really heartening. When I look around at the boys, I see talent, experience and quality.

Only, the same unit can achieve a lot more than what it has already achieved as a team by being consistent. I have to try and get them to achieve that consistency.

It won’t all be roses along the way. There might be some edginess. But then, a little nervousness is always good. Only when I actually go on to the field will I know what it’s like. But the thought is exciting.

As for the team we’re playing, we’ve done well in the recent past against Pakistan and would like to take that momentum forward.

The start of the first innings of a Test series is always crucial, so Thursday will be vital. Even while people say that this game is missing the frenetic atmosphere that surrounds an India-Pak game, there is a buzz for me because of the captaincy. I’ve had to make a couple of tough calls already.

For instance, the decision to leave Yuvraj out was difficult. He will have to bide his time, which is sad.

He is an outstanding talent and will come in sooner than later, but for now he waits. Of course, I’ll talk to him about it.

I’m someone who likes to communicate with my teammates, explain my reasoning to them and ensure that my own thought process is uncluttered.

Unexpected bonus

At this stage of my career, the captaincy is an unexpected but delightful shot in the arm. I have a responsibility, one I also see as an opportunity to bring in some much-needed changes.

Ultimately, you need to pass on whatever you have learnt to those who will follow and ensure the team follows this “in terms of values, in terms of other things” in a systematic, planned manner so that everyone is clear about goals and where they stand vis-a-vis the team.

At the end of the day, it’s a team sport, and while this often tends to be overlooked by dazzling individual performances, the bottomline is that we should play as a team.

— Hawkeye Communications / Chivach Sports

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