 Most important factor is to ensure a series victory: Kumble
14th Jul 2008 17:05 IST
Agencies
Highest Test run accumulator's glory beckons Sachin Tendulkar in Sri Lanka but India captain Anil Kumble is not ready to allow it to be a distraction and said a series victory would top the team's agenda in the island nation.
Tendulkar (11782) will reach Sri Lanka needing another 172 runs to topple Brian Lara (11953) and become the highest Test run accumulator.
Kumble said it would be a great moment not only for the batsman but also for the entire country but series win would still be on top of the players' minds.
"We always feel proud that one of our teammates is going to cross a land mark. Every time when there is a sense of achievement, it's not for the individual only but also for the team," Kumble said in Chennai today, on the eve of team's departure for Sri Lanka.
"But, the most important factor is that we go there and ensure a series victory. That will be on top of everybody's mind," Kumble added.
"I am sure that at some point of time, Sachin will cross the land mark. It will be a huge achievement not just for him but also for Indian cricket. Sachin is confident. He has come back fully fit from groin injury. He is really fresh in mind and really confident," said the Test captain.
Though the Indian ODI team recently lost to Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup final in Karachi, Kumble feels the Test squad has been quite consistent and all he was eyeing was a series victory.
"As a Test team we have really performed well, in that sense, we are pretty confident. In Test cricket, we have done exceptionally well in the last year or so. We have been consistent. I am sure we will be able to put up a good show and ensure a series win," said the veteran leg-spinner.
Ajantha Mendis ran through India's famed batting line-up in the Asia Cup final and though Kumble refused to underestimate the Sri Lankan mystery spinner, he was not unduly worried about him either.
"We need to respect every bowler. We will definitely not take anyone lightly. Importantly, in Test cricket we have a lot more time to get ready and get set."
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