One of the prime objective for India’s new coach Anil Kumble would be to make a team that will perform better in the overseas conditions. India has constantly performed well in the home conditions but have failed to replicate that form in alien conditions.
Indian cricket team labelled as poor travellers, performed very well in the overseas conditions during the first half of the last decade under the captaincy of Sourav Ganguly. However, in the last five-six years, their performance outside the subcontinent is disastrous. They have won just 11 per cent of matches outside of India in the last five years.
Kumble’s first assignment will be the four-test series in West Indies and kumble insisted that the focus of the team will be to improve the overseas conditions.
“The first four Tests will be in the West Indies where the conditions are not that different to India,” he told the BCCI.
“But the Indian conditions are something we are all comfortable with. “The focus will be on (improving) our overseas record and the mindset is something we need to address from home itself.
“When we sit down that’s something we’ll need to make a plan and ensure we train towards achieving those goals.”
India will be having a very busy season as they are scheduled to play a mammoth 13 tests. Australia, New Zealand, England, and Bangladesh are lined up for a bumper Indian season after they return from the West Indies. With such a grinding season coming, it will be a test of character for India’s greatest spinner who is still learning the basics of coaching.
Kumble, who was interviewed by the CAC for the post of India’s coach, said that it was his first ever job interview.
“I’ve attended a couple of club membership interviews, other than that, for seeking a job, this was the first time I’ve attended an interview,” the 45-year-old conceded.
“My colleagues who I’ve played with for the majority of my career were on the other side of the table, so it was very strange.
“We’ve had various meetings as part of the (India) team, various strategy meetings and various casual meetings (in their playing days).
“It was very different to present my case to the three members. Sachin was on the video conference but Dravid and Laxman were on the other side (of the table) so it was quite nerve-wracking.”
Kumble said that the team’s core is exceptional and consistency is the only attribute required.
“I certainly believe the core of the team is exceptional,” he said. “All it needs is the youngsters coming through and consistent performances.
“We will get a lot of time (to prepare) prior to the tour of the West Indies.
“I’d like to observe first. It’s a new job, a new role for me and there’s an existing set of players there. “I’d like to play a background role – that’s my style.”