He speaks with the clarity of a professor. His voice, like his bowling, is measured and he does not fumble for words.
Anil Kumble has come a long way from the shy, introvert young man who many believed was in the wrong profession. Today, he is arguably one of India's greatest cricketer ever and without doubt the finest spin bowler the country has seen.
He spoke to Pradeep Magazine on phone from Bangalore on various facets of his career. Excerpts...
Q: What were your thoughts when you began your international career?
A: I was very young then. I just wanted to do well and make a mark.
Q: Now, when you look back, what thoughts come to your mind?
A: I feel very satisfied. It has been a long journey and lot of people have said a lot of things about me… it feels nice.
Q: I mean when you began did you have any idea about how good you would become?
A: I knew my strengths and limitations. And it was very important to bowl to my strengths.