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Former Indian captain and legendary spinner Anil Kumble was showered with well wishes as he celebrated his 54th birthday on Thursday, October 17. He is India’s leading wicket-taker in all formats, with an impressive tally of 953 wickets from 401 matches.
Kumble played 271 ODIs for India, picking up 337 wickets at an economy rate of 4.30. He achieved two five-wicket hauls, solidifying his position as the top wicket-taker for India in ODIs.
In Test cricket, Kumble ranks fourth in all-time leading wicket-takers, with 619 wickets in 132 matches, trailing only Muttiah Muralitharan (800), Shane Warne (709), and James Anderson (704). He was the second bowler ever to achieve 10 wickets in a single innings during a Test match against Pakistan in Delhi in 1999.
As the legendary spinner celebrated his 54th birthday on October 17, he received numerous greetings on X. Here are some of the reactions:
“Happy birthday to the legendary @anilkumble1074! Former Indian captain and India’s leading wicket-taker in Test cricket, your magic with the ball continues to inspire generations of cricketers. Wishing you a day filled with joy and a year ahead full of success,” wrote BCCI secretary Jay Shah.
“Happy birthday to the legendary Anil Kumble @anilkumbke1074!! Wishing a joyous day to the spin king who took 619 wickets for India. Your remarkable career, leadership, and sportsmanship continue to inspire generations. May this year bring you happiness, success, and plenty of reasons to celebrate!” wrote Suresh Raina.
“He was the man who made us believe that we could win the Ranji Trophy & eventually won it as Karnataka captain. And he's had a great role in grooming youngsters from our playing days. Happy birthday to my mentor, brother, and India's finest matchwinner Anil Kumble,” wrote former Indian cricketer Dodda Ganesh.
“Happy birthday to the legendary Anil Kumble! Your determination, resilience, and mastery over spin have inspired generations of cricket lovers. From your unforgettable 10-wicket haul to your leadership both on and off the field, you've shown us what true greatness looks like,” a fan wrote.
Anil Kumble has also served as the head coach of the Indian men’s team
Anil Kumble served as the coach of the Indian men’s team from June 2016 to June 2017. During his tenure, India triumphed over the West Indies 2-0 in a four-match Test series away from home.
Later that year, India also secured victories against New Zealand and England in the Test series played at home.
The Men in Blue reached the final of the 2017 Champions Trophy but suffered a 180-run defeat to Pakistan.
