Captaincy refusal surprises, says Azhar

Former India skipper Mohammed Azharuddin fails to understand what is making some seniors in the current Indian team shy away from captaincy.

Former India skipper Mohammed Azharuddin fails to understand what is making some seniors in the current Indian team shy away from captaincy.

“I really don’t know what is the problem here, I just can’t understand,” a visibly perplexed Azharuddin told reporters here this evening. “I mean, all that I can think of is that they don’t want to lead the team, that’s why they are not keen on taking up the captaincy,” he said.

Azhar is in the city as the Cricket Association of Bengal’s (CAB) guest for the India-Pakistan Test match beginning tomorrow at Eden Gardens.

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Azhar, however, is satisfied with the move to hand over the reins to the experienced Kumble. “I think that’s a very good move. Kumble deserves the captaincy thoroughly,” he said.

Wishing the Indian team best for the second Test, Azhar pointed out that Inzamam-ul Haq’s absence is taking a toll on the Pakistan team.

“When good players retire, you have to take it in your stride, and find suitable replacements. However, after someone like Inzamam retired, it will take Pakistan some time to fill the void,” said the former skipper.