Anil Kumble rejected an offer to continue as India's head coach and stepped down on Tuesday after a year in charge, blaming a breakdown in his relationship with captain Virat Kohli for his exit. Kumble took to Twitter to explain his decision, saying he was informed by the BCCI on Monday that Kohli had "reservations with my 'style' and about my continuing as head coach." Kumble said he was "surprised" by Kohli's stance "since I had always respected the role boundaries between captain and coach."
Kumble's one-year contract expired at the end of the Champions Trophy. Kumble achieved great success in his tenure, despite little previous first-class coaching experience. India's highest wicket-taker led the team to the top of the test rankings, after series wins over West Indies, New Zealand, England, Bangladesh and Australia. The Indians won 12 of 17 tests and lost only one. They won eight of 13 ODIs, and had a shot at defending the Champions Trophy crown.
Full text of Anil's Kumble's statement post his decision to step down as India's head coach:
I am honoured by the confidence reposed in me by the CAC, in asking me to continue as Head Coach. The credit for the achievements of the last one year goes to the captain, the entire team, coaching and support staff. Post this intimation, I was informed for the first time yesterday by the BCCI that the Captain had reservations with my 'style' and about my continuing as the Head Coach. I was surprised since I had always respected the role boundaries between Captain and Coach. Though the BCCI attempted to resolved the misunderstandings between the Captain and me, it was apparent that the partnership was untenable, and I therefore believe it is best for me to move on.
Professionalism, discipline, commitment, honesty, complementary skills and diverse views are the key traits I bring to the table. These need to be valued for the partnership to be effective. I see the Coach's role akin to 'holding a mirror' to drive self-improvement in the team's interest.
In light of these 'reservations'. I believe it is best I hand over this responsibility to whomever the CAC and BCCI deem fit. Let me reiterate that it has been an absolute privilege to have served as Head Coach for the last one year.
I thank the CAC, BCCI, CoA and all concerned. I also wish to thank the innumerable followers and fans of Indian cricket for their continued support. I will remain a well wisher of the great cricketing tradition of my country forever.
