Kumble confident of India winning Asia Cup

Bangalore, June 24 (UNI) Test captain Anil Kumble exuded confidence of India winning the Asia Cup, which began in Pakistan today.

Talking to newspersons here, he said ''during the last tri-nation series, with Pakistan and Bangladesh being the other teams, we would have won if we had scored 20 more runs.'' India lost the finals to Pakistan by 23 runs.

''However, if we maintain the same tempo, I am sure Team India will return with the Asia Cup,'' he added.

To a question, Kumble said the just-ended 45-day Indian Premier League would not have any adverse impact on Test players as they were professionals and were capable of adjusting to any format.

He said he only suggested a week-long camp, which began here today, for the players since Bangalore had ideal weather conditions and other facilities. ''Players attending the camp, especially youngsters, can improve their performance before departing to Sri Lanka to play three Test matches and five ODIs, beginning from July 23.'' Kumble said southpaw Sourav Ganguly had been exempted from attending the camp as he was in London looking after his father, undergoing treatment there. Master blaster Sachin Tendulkar, who is busy attending to his family matters, might join the camp later in the week.

The players were assisted by Physio Muthu Kumar and trainer Ramji Srinivasan.

After a fitness test in the morning, the players had bowling and batting practice and worked out.

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