Kumble forced to return home

Anil Kumble

Surrey have announced that experienced Indian spin bowler Anil Kumble will be returning home on Friday, August 25.

The overseas star has been diagnosed with tendonitis in his right shoulder, which can only recover with rest. It is for this reason that he will be returning home to India and as such will be taking no further part in the remainder of Surrey's season.

Kumble, who reported to the Brit Oval on July 18, played in three Liverpool Victoria County Championship matches, three NatWest Pro40 matches and two Twenty20 matches for Surrey.

Altogether the Indian leg spinner took 26 wickets, which included the match winning figures of 11-183 against Northamptonshire at the Brit Oval.

Commenting on the early loss, Cricket Manager Alan Butcher said: “It is very disappointing to be losing Anil for the rest of the season.

“However, during his short time, he has shown that he is a world-class performer as well as a first class professional. From my point of view it was a pleasure working with him and I would love the opportunity to do so again in the future.”

Kumble added: "It is disappointing that my shoulder injury has prevented me taking part in the rest of Surrey's season.

“We are still in with a great chance of winning the Second Division Liverpool Victoria County Championship and I would have loved to be part of that. I wish Alan and the team the best of luck in achieving this and want to thank all of the guys for making my time here really enjoyable."