Anil Kumble Comes To The Rescue Of Saqlain Mushtaq:
Legendary spinner Anil Kumble once rescued his Pakistani counterpart Saqlain Mushtaq at a time when there was no doctor in Pakistan who could help the cricketer. Mushtaq and Kumble were flag-bearers of spin bowling during their international careers.
Kumble and Mushtaq used to spearhead the bowling units of both Asian heavyweights when India played arch-rivals Pakistan. Both Kumble and Mushtaq were part of an intense rivalry between the two nations on the field, but the Pakistani spin great shared great camaraderie with the former Indian Team skipper off the field.
Known as Dusra’s creator in Pakistani cricket, Mushtaq recently shared a fascinating anecdote about legendary Team India spinner Kumble where he revealed how he was helped by the Indian spin wizard to get back his vision.
Mushtaq used to struggle with his eyesight during his playing days, and the spinner had consulted popular doctors in Pakistan, but they failed to come up with a solution. Ultimately it was Kumble who came to support Mushtaq and gave him the reference of an ophthalmologist based in London.
On an Instagram live, Mushtaq remembered how his ‘elder’ brother Kumble helped him to find a doctor to cure his cataract. “We’ve been to England, and I told Anil Bhai that there aren’t many good opticians back home, so I’m struggling and if he would suggest any ophthalmologists.
So, he recommended I go to Dr. Bharat Rugani. He even said that he and Ganguly would always consult him. He gave me the doctor’s number, and I visited him at Harley Street (London),’ Saqlain said.
“The doctor had my eyes examined and given me lenses. I had a cataract, the vision power was cylindrical, and the eyes too were weak. I had consulted with several doctors in Pakistan, and none was able to treat them. So, Anil Bhai was the one who would help me get in touch with the doctor. I was able to recuperate because of him. He’s a gem of a person,” said the former Pakistan spinner.
Saqlain used to struggle while fielding before the treatment, and his anticipation was well below the standards expected. “When I stood in the boundary while fielding, my anticipation capacity was zero. Therefore I’d be slow and respond late. Now, I can clearly see everything, “Saqlain said.
Mushtaq, who last played a Test for Pakistan against India in 2004, also has fond memories with Kumble and further revealed why he sees the Indian legend as his elder brother. The 43-year-old stated that during a series with India, he used to ask for suggestions, and Kumble always used to give the right advice.
“Our culture taught us to respect the elders, and Anil Bhai is like my elder brother. We have good talks whenever we meet. Even on play days, in the middle of a game, you could walk up to him and seek suggestions. He would help you with the tips you need, and would never misguide you. I have great respect for him, “added the former Pakistan spinner.
