Bangalore(NDTV):Former India captain Anil Kumble will not seek re-election in the forthcoming Karnataka State Cricket Association elections. The 43-year-old was the president of the high profile Board of Control for Cricket in India unit. Speaking to the media in Bangalore on Friday, Kumble said he will not contest. Former teammate Javagal Srinath too will not seek an extension for the post of secretary.
“You can’t achieve everything in 3 years. But you need fresh ideas as well,” Kumble said, when announcing his decision. Kumble and Srinath, along with Venkatesh Prasad took charge of the KSCA in November 21, 2010. They were part of a group along with former Test all-rounder Roger Binny and Bangalore-based industrialist Sadanand Mayya. Kumble and Co. defeated Srikantadatta Narasimharaja Wodeyar, scion of the Mysore Royal family, by a margin of 33 votes.
Srinath, however, said it was the group’s intention to hold office for just one term. “We came here with optimism. We are optimistic the next committee, whoever they are, will take things forward,” the 44-year-old said. The next KSCA elections are scheduled to be held next month.
“Our focus during our three-year term was on development,” said Kumble, adding that his group main aim was to promote grassroot cricket and not on re-election.
Kumble also expressed his satisfaction at being able to complete his term in office and pledged his support to his successor. “It has been a privilege to contribute to KSCA. We will support whoever comes to power and contribute towards cricket in the state in any way we can.”
“We are optimistic the next committee, whoever they are, will take things forward,” said Srinath, echoing his close friend’s views.
Kumble neither confirmed or denied rumours that he would join active politics. However, he said that this decision was not motivated by a desire to enter the political arena in the state.
