Kumble plays important role in building RCB: Mallya

BANGALORE - Royal Challengers Bangalore owner Vijay Mallya said Sunday that former India captain Anil Kumble plays an important role in building the team for the fourth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Kumble, who lead Royal Challengers in the last two editions, is now a mentor for the team and Mallya feels the legendary leg-spinner’s presence will be of great help to the youngsters in the team.

“Anil is very excited about this young team and he is looking forward to work with the players. He will talk to the coaches as well,” said Mallya.

“It is great to have him as he has been India’s most successful bowler till date. He was also a good captain of our side. He is a man of great accomplishment. Anil and I share the same optimism and enthusiasm.”

The Royal Challengers have so far bought 11 players and India all-rounder Sourabh Tiwary has been their expensive player at $1.6 million.

Mallya said he is happy with the buys and is now looking forward to buying some back-up players.

“The core of the team is done. We have a well-balanced side. It is a young team. We got one or two back-up players to buy and we will be good to go,” he said.

Mallya was happy after he retained fast bowler Abhimanyu Mithun.

“We lost out on Vinay Kumar to Kochi but was pleased to have Abhimanyu back in the side. He was essential for the balance of the side,” he said.