Explosive Response: Anil Kumble's Epic Takedown of Harbhajan Singh's BCCI Critique

Anil Kumble's Response to Harbhajan Singh's Critique of IPL Scheduling for T20 World Cup

Anil Kumble opposes Harbhajan Singh's criticism of the BCCI's IPL scheduling for the T20 World Cup, asserting that participating in the IPL adequately prepares Indian players for the upcoming tournament.

Harbhajan Singh, a former Indian cricketer, acknowledged that the BCCI's timing of the 2024 IPL season was incorrect, as the T20 World Cup commences shortly after the league final in Chennai. He emphasized the necessity of 4-5 practice matches for the Indian T20 World Cup squad before their campaign begins on June 5 in New York. However, Kumble believes that playing in the IPL is the best preparation for the ICC tournament.

India's T20 World Cup Preparations According to Anil Kumble

Earlier this week, England players selected for the T20 World Cup squad left their IPL franchises to return home for tournament preparation. They are set to compete against Pakistan in T20Is before departing for the ICC event. Harbhajan suggested that the BCCI could have followed a similar approach, expressing dissatisfaction with the IPL schedule.

"I think with this IPL schedule, it's challenging to arrange several matches together. We have two games in America before the tournament starts," Harbhajan stated. He proposed having 4-5 matches against top teams like England or Australia in America to adapt to the conditions. However, Kumble believes that the limited time available must be utilized efficiently.

Kumble's View on IPL Matches as Preparation for T20 World Cup

Kumble, an IPL Expert on JioCinema, believes that 14-17 IPL matches provide adequate preparation for the T20 World Cup. He mentioned that Indian players not involved in the playoffs would leave early to acclimatize to New York's conditions.

"The players not part of the playoffs will go early, and those in the playoffs will leave immediately after the IPL. So, preparation shouldn't differ much. You can't get better preparation for the World Cup than playing in the IPL," Kumble explained.

He also addressed criticism of England players leaving before the playoffs, stating that franchises were aware of this beforehand and had backup plans. Kumble emphasized that each country has its approach to preparing for major events, and England's decision to withdraw players should not be a concern.