Anil Kumble during a presser.

India coach Anil Kumble has welcomed the inclusion of Gautam Gambhir in the Indian squad for the remainder of the Test series against New Zealand.

The southpaw, who last played for India in 2014, was looking completely out of favour with the Indian selectors as they were looking to give the youngsters an extended run. However, an injury to in-form opener KL Rahul in the first Test in Kanpur saw Gambhir making a sensational comeback to the Indian team after two years.

With the inexperienced team doing fine, the selectors were not willing to disturb the winning combinations but they were under severe pressure to pick the left-handed batsman after consistent performances in the domestic arena and IPL. More pressure piled up on the selectors after Gambhir led from the front to help his team win this year’s Duleep Trophy.

Speaking to the media ahead of the  second Test at Eden Gardens, Anil Kumble said: “I think it’s really nice to have Gautam back. Gautam has done really well in domestic cricket and he is a part of the 15. I don’t want to give away anything with regards to the team combinations all 15 are available for selection, so it’s nice to have him back.”

Gambhir played under Kumble during his time with the Indian team and the former Indian skipper had reportedly told Gambhir to remain fit mentally and physically. Well, one can expect that Kumble will give Gambhir an extended run to prove his worth.

Meanwhile, the Indian team would be looking to win the series at Eden Gardens after decimating the Kiwis by 197 runs in the first Test. The match will start on September 30.