The Hindu : Sport : It’s very special: Kumble

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Thursday, Dec 27, 2007
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It’s very special: Kumble

Special Correspondent

Pitch will remain tough for batsmen, says Hayden

Melbourne: Anil Kumble and Matthew Hayden are two of world cricket’s great fighters. Neither was rated highly by judges wedded to convention; but, as they showed on Wednesday at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, character and strength of mind are worth more than perceived talent.

“It’s on top of everything,” said Kumble of his five for 84 on day one of the first Test. “It was Boxing Day, at the MCG, in front of a big crowd, against Australia and on the opening day of the series. It is very special.”

Intense battle

Asked about the Indian side’s successful comeback, Kumble said, “Everyone in the team understands Test cricket. They know that from 130 for no loss, you could quickly lose wickets, or that from 120 for five, you can still reach 400. The intensity was good throughout, we kept coming hard at the Australians. I have always believed that the first Test of a series is very important, we have done exceptionally well after being on the back foot at lunch on day one.”

Hayden, who made 124, said the MCG surface wasn’t easy to bat on. “The ball held on the wicket, it bounced a little. The hardest conditions were at the start of the day, from overs nought through 30. Then we found ways to get out. It was a difficult pitch to bat on, and I expect it to be that way throughout the game.”

The left-handed opener said the pitch would remain tough for batsmen. “It will be so over the next four days. We will try and put pressure on India with in-out fields, try and constrict them because I think the wicket will deteriorate.”

Champion cricketer

Hayden had words of praise for Kumble. “He is right up there with Warnie and Murali. He is such an unusual bowler. He is unorthodox in that he doesn’t turn it a great deal. His venomous balls are the toppie and the wrong ’un. He gets a lot more bounce than most bowlers, though today, he didn’t have that help. But champion bowlers produce champion results in all conditions. His preparation has always been good, he is a solid performer and a truly champion cricketer.”

Kumble returned the compliment.

“It is definitely on the slower side, but if you apply yourself, there are runs to be scored. Hayden himself showed how to do it during his century.”

Supports Harbhajan

The Indian captain explained the choice of Harbhajan thus: “It was important to play the four best bowlers, and especially because we would have batted first had I won the toss. Harbhajan and I have done well as a pair against Australia, and I am glad we are still in the game. Harbhajan kept it tight, we bowled well together today. I got the wickets, and he was a bit unlucky. I am sure he will be more effective in the second innings.”

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