'Inspiring' Kumble's never-say-die attitude is what team India needs right now, says Rohit Sharma

INDIA BATSMAN Rohit Sharma showered praise on India’s newly elected coach Anil Kumble, describing the legendary spinner as a player and a mentor, who inspired many young talents. 

Rohit had played alongside Kumble during the tail-end of the former leggies career. The duo re-established their professional relationship when Kumble served as Mumbai Indians' mentor and coach from 2013-2015. Sharma led-MI during the same tenure clinched two IPL trophies and a Champions League T20 title. 

Fondly recalling the period at the Mumbai Indians, MI captain told espncricinfo,

"I have two [three] years of experience [with him] at Mumbai Indians and I know the kind of things we spoke about. I was the captain and he was the coach and mentor of the team. I got to learn a lot from him. I was fortunate enough to play with him during the last months before he retired. I remember in 2008, I was part of the Test squad to Sri Lanka and he was the captain. And he always had this attitude of never giving up, which as a young player is so inspiring.”

Speaking of India’s leading wicket-taker’s fighting spirit, Sharma added,

"You have to keep fighting no matter what. If the game is slipping away from your hands, don't give up till the last ball is bowled. That's how he [Kumble] played his cricket. You get the feeling that he was someone who wouldn't let go too easily. That's the kind of message that he wanted to send across. That's the kind of message we also want as young players. He's very inspiring."

Sharma, was also full of praise for Ravi Shastri, who was the leading contender for India head coach role. The former India cricketer’s tenure as team India director came to an end after the 2016 WCT20. 

Sharma concluded, 

"[Shastri] took up the responsibility when we were in a shambles. As soon as he came, he created a positive atmosphere around us. [He had] a big influence on Indian cricket for the past 18 months."