Former India spinner Anil Kumble is back to coaching a team as IPL franchise Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) appointed him as director of cricket operations. He previously held mentorship roles at Royal Challengers Bangalore and Mumbai Indians.

“With RCB we did not win the title but we came close a couple of times. With Mumbai, we had wonderful success those three years I was there. It is nice to have the experience of crossing the line. It certainly helps (you as a coach),” Kumble was quoted as saying by PTI on Wednesday (16 October).

READ ALSO: R Ashwin retained by Kings XI Punjab; trade to Delhi Capitals scrapped

While talking about the Indian Premier League (IPL), the 48-year-old said, “You learn from the previous experiences you have had as a player, as a coach but IPL is a rollercoaster ride. You need to be patient and then back the players you have.”

When asked about the decision of appointing Ashwin as the KXIP skipper, Kumble said, “We have not decided that yet. Some decisions need to be made but we don't need to decide at this moment. IPL is still five months away. There is an auction coming up, we will start to build a squad around that as well.”

When asked about the young KXIP squad, the Bengaluru based leg-spinner said, “We have a really good young squad. Needs a little bit of experience. We do have Chris who is the most experienced player in the world. But yes, we will be settling down soon and put together a strategy for the way forward.”

“In 12 years the only time they have got close is in 2014 when they lost in the finals. So to win a maiden trophy is the ultimate goal,” he added.

(With PTI inputs)