Kumble gunning for 500 wicket mark
Having been written off on at least one occasion, Anil Kumble has proved himself one of the world's most endurable and most successful bowlers
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For a leg-spinner, his average of 27.98 is outstanding and in his 100 Tests, he has taken five wickets in an innings an incredible 31 times, and taken 10 in the match on eight occasions. Considering that more than half of his matches have been at home, on traditionally slow pitches, his efforts are truly world class. His extra bounce and variation of pace has troubled the world's top batsmen and there is no one who relishes the prospect of facing him.
Pakistan, in particular, won't be looking forward to facing him as he's managed 39 wickets in his six Tests against them. Moreover, who could forget the clash between the two sides in Delhi in 1999 when Kumble ripped through the entire Pakistan team to finish with 10/174. The leg-spinner also took 15 wickets in the series victory in Pakistan two years ago, though the only time he struggled was in Lahore - venue for the first Test this time round - when he managed only 2/146 on what's traditionally a great batting pitch.
Kumble's partnership with Harbhajan Singh has been one of the hallmarks of India's success over the past five years and it's no surprise that the two are joint favourites to be India's top wicket-taker in the series, at 11/10 (2.10) with bet365. On recent form, though, you'd have to go with Kumble, whose wiles will be crucial on what could be some long days in the field.
Please note that odds are correct at time of publication and are subject to change.
Simon Cambers is Cricinfo's new betting correspondent
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