Kohli talks but says nothing

Port of Spain, June 22

Following Anil Kumble’s resignation and the statement he put out on Twitter, everyone was waiting with bated breath for Virat Kohli to respond. The Indian skipper finally spoke about the raging controversy, only to say that he would never reveal the dressing-room details.

Kohli said “he respects” Kumble’s decision to quit and that there is highest regard for him as a player. “Obviously Anil bhai has expressed his views and he has taken a decision to step out and we will respect that decision,” Kohli said on the eve of the first ODI against West Indies.

While saying Kumble was entitled to his opinion, the skipper said the dressing room details were sacred for him, and hence couldn’t be shared in public. “I have had 11 press conferences during the Champions Trophy. We have created a culture over the last 3-4 years that whatever happens in the change room, we have tried to maintain the sanctity of the change room throughout. That is what the whole team believes in. For us that is paramount,” said Kohli, making it clear that he wouldn’t reveal his side of the story.

The skipper said he and his players respect Kumble’s achievements as a player. “I’ve total respect for him as a cricketer and what he has achieved for the nation. There’s no taking away that aspect of him at all. And we all respect him totally,” said Kohli.

He was asked about Kumble’s approach as coach but he maintained his stance. “Like I said, it’s important for me to maintain the sanctity of the dressing room and what happens in the change-room is something very sacred and private to all of us. It’s something I would not express in detail in public. As I said, his point of view is out there and we respect that decision.” 

Kohli deletes year-old tweet welcoming Kumble

India captain Virat Kohli has deleted his year-old tweet welcoming Anil Kumble’s appointment as chief coach of the Indian side, further exposing the bitterness that has crept in. Kohli deleted the post soon after the spin legend’s decision to resign from his post due to “untenable” differences with the captain. Soon after Kumble’s appointment last year, Kohli had greeted him with a smiley and expressed hopes of a great future under his guidance. “Heartiest welcome to @anilkumble1074 Sir. Look forward to your tenure with us. Great things in store for Indian Cricket with you ??” Kohli had posted on his Twitter handle. — PTI