Anil Kumble, the legendary Indian leg-spinner, is generally credited with a genuinely brave and daring event in Indian cricket history. Kumble was hit on the jaw while batting in the 2002 Test against the West Indies in Antigua, and scans revealed that he needed to return to India the next day for surgery.
However, the leg-spinner showed amazing bravery by coming out to bowl in the West Indies’ opening innings despite having a broken jaw. His jaw was extensively wrapped and he appeared to be in pain, but Kumble’s main goal was to help his squad as much as he could.
In the annals of cricket history, there have been numerous instances of players displaying extraordinary courage and resilience on the field. One such remarkable incident is etched in the memory of cricket fans worldwide, involving the legendary Indian cricketer Anil Kumble. In a display of unwavering determination, Kumble continued to bowl with a broken jaw during a crucial match. What makes this story even more intriguing is the nonchalant reaction of his wife, which showcased the unyielding spirit of a sportsman and his unwavering dedication to the game.
Anil Kumble’s Brave Act on the Feild
Anil Kumble went on to tell how the doctor used temporary therapy to keep his jaw together. He also discussed the kind of food he was permitted to consume. Kumble still holds the record for the most Test wickets for India, with 619.
The doctor literally wired my lower jaw together in one place.” I was on liquids, and even (drinking) the drinks was difficult. And I mean, what do you get when you combine the West Indies and vegetarianism (laughs), so you make do with whatever you have.
The Incident: The year was 2002, and India was locked in a fierce battle against the West Indies in the second Test match held at the Antigua Recreation Ground. Anil Kumble, renowned for his formidable leg-spin bowling, was at the peak of his career. However, destiny had something unexpected in store for him during that match.
During his fourth over, Kumble delivered a vicious googly that ricocheted off the bat of West Indies’ Brian Lara, rising swiftly toward the batsman’s face. In an instinctive act of self-preservation, Lara swung his bat to protect himself, inadvertently redirecting the ball towards Kumble. The ball struck Kumble on his face, fracturing his jawbone in the process.
The Wife’s Reaction: In a recent interview, Anil Kumble reminisced about the incident and his wife’s reaction to his valiant act. He recalled, “I don’t think she even took it seriously.” These words encapsulate the true essence of a sportsperson’s life. While the world marveled at Kumble’s bravery, his wife remained steadfast and composed, knowing that her husband possessed an indomitable spirit that could overcome any adversity.
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