Anil Kumble and Saqlain Mushtaq were fierce rivals on the field. Representing their respective nation and arch-rivals India and Pakistan, those two are of the finest spinners of the 1990s era. In an recent interview, Saqlain Mushtaq revealed his closeness with the fellow Indian leg spinner.
Saqlain revealed how the former India spinner helped him immensely during his career. He recalled the numerous instances when he saw Kumble like an elder brother
“Our culture has taught us to respect elders and Anil bhai is just like my elder brother. Whenever we meet, we have good chats. Even during playing days, you could walk up to him and seek suggestions in middle of a series. He would help you with necessary tips and would never misguide it. I have a lot of respect for him,” 43-year-old Saqlain said.
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Saqlain, who admitted to be in awe of Kumble’s performance when Pakistan’s toured India for 2 test matches in 1999. Saqlain had a good outing at the Chennai test claiming five-wicket-hauls in both innings. Kumble ended his first innings spell with figures of 6/70 in the first innings. In the next game at Delhi, Kumble became the second bowler to scalp all 10 wickets in an innings. The Pakista
n bowler regrets not getting a chance to play alongside Kumble.
“We have played against each other, but never together. I wish I could play at least one match, where both of us could have been in the same team. I have played together with Muttiah Muralitharan in MCL league matches, and it was super fun. I hope someday we can perhaps play in some veterans’ match where Anil bhai and I will be in the same team,” the former off-spinner said.
Saqlain shares a story about how Anil Kumble came to this rescue. Saqlain reveals there was a time in his career when the Pakistan bowler faced issues with his vision. Mushtaq reveals how Anil Kumble helped him find a solution for the same.
“We were in England and I told Anil bhai that there are not many good opticians back home, so I am struggling and if he could suggest some ophthalmologists. So, he suggested that I go to Dr. Bharat Rugani. Even he said that he and [Sourav] Ganguly consult him often. He gave me the [contact] number of the doctor and I visited him in Harley Street (in London),” Saqlain said.
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“The doctor checked my eyes and gave me lenses. I had cataract, the vision power was cylindrical and also the eyes were weak. I had consulted many doctors in Pakistan and none could treat it. So, it was Anil bhai who would help me get in touch with the doctor. It was because of him that I could recover. He is a gem of a person.” he said
“If I [stood] in the boundary while fielding, my anticipation power was zero. That’s why I would be slow and would react late. Now, I can see everything clearly.” the Pakistani spinner added.
