Kumble deserves to be captain: Srikkanth

Chennai, Nov 9 (UNI) ''He deserved it'' was the instantaneous reaction from Indian captain Krishnamachari Srikkanth on the appointment of ace leg spinner Anil Kumble as Team India's new captain for the test matches against the touring Pakistan side.

Talking to UNI here today he said ''though it has,probably, come very late, I am very happy about it. He (Anil) deserved it''.

Kumble, who becomes the third spinner to lead the team after former off spinner S Venkataraghavan and left armer Bishen Singh Bedi, was also in the run for the post some years back, he added.

''At this stage, the Board and the Selectors have taken the right decision'', Srikkanth said.

Asked about Kumble being selected only for the three test matches against Pakistan, the former dashing opener hoped that Kumble would lead the Indian test team for the upcoming tour to Australia also.

''I hope that within one year's time, the Board will be able to find an alternative captain'', he added.

UNI