Ranatunga lauds Kumble's dignified career

New Delhi, Nov 3 (UNI) Former Sri Lankan captain Arjuna Ranatunga today showered accolades on Anil Kumble and said the leg Spinner's fighting spirit and dignified conduct makes him an ideal role model for youngsters.

Kumble announced his retirement yesterday during the drawn Test between India and Australia here and with it ended an international career which saw him claiming 619 wickets in 132 Tests.

''If Kumble was born in Australia or England, he would have got much more prominence in world cricket considering his superb record in both forms of the game,'' Ranatunga said in a today.

''Kumble is definitely the best role model for any youngster entering the game'' he added and wished the Indian a happy retired life.

Ranatunga further added that he expects Kumble to stay in touch with the game and help lift the standard of Indian cricket.

UNI RAR MP AS2053