 Dhoni's absence an opportunity for Karthik, Parthiv: Kumble
15th Jul 2008 23:02 IST
Agencies
Indian Test captain Anil Kumble is in no mood to lament cricket-weary Mahendra Singh Dhoni's absence from the squad and believes it is a gilt-edged opportunity for stumpers Dinesh Karthik and Parthiv Patel to prove their mettle.
Addressing a press conference soon after the team landed in Colombo for the three-match Test series, Kumble sounded upbeat about the team's prospect and was not unduly worried about Dhoni's absence.
"This would give an opportunity to both Dinesh Karthik and Parthiv Patel to prove themselves after their good showing in the domestic cricket," Kumble said.
Dhoni had earlier cited fatigue and opted out of the Test squad. Kumble refused to delve into the pros and cons of Dhoni's decision and said the ODI captain had already explained reasons behind his decision.
Though Kumble oozed confidence that his side would live up to the expectation in the series, the seasoned campaigner admitted it would not be a cakewalk for the visitors.
"It will be a tough series and will require a lot of hard work," Kumble said.
Sri Lanka has an impressive record at home and they have found a new match-winner in spin sensation Ajantha Mendis, even though Kumble insisted the Indian batsmen were not losing sleep over him.
"We will be on the lookout," Kumble said, when his opinion was sought on the mystery spinner who ran through the Indian batting order in the Asia Cup final.
Kumble felt with pace spearhead Zaheer Khan returning to the side, the Indian attack would have a formidable look.
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