VVS Laxman acknowledged former India captain and spin legend Anil Kumble's contribution towards the game and the values he exhibited on the field throughout his illustrious career at the highest level.
Laxman on Saturday (May 30) decided he would be paying tribute to some of his ex-teammates over the next few days for leading by example for him and others.
The 'very very special' picked Anil as the second one of the list of his great friends and teammates who inspired him through their deeds.
Heaping effusive praise on Kumble, Laxman recalled the great leg-spinner turning up to bowl despite having broken his jaw in Antigua for a Test against West Indies on the 2002 tour.
"A giant in every sense, he rose above and beyond the call of duty. The grit, drive and bravery displayed through this picture is quintessential Anil Kumble. Never giving up, no matter what, was a trait which made Anil the cricketer he became," tweeted Laxman, who played most of his 134 Tests alongside Kumble.
Kumble, struck dangerously by a bouncer from Mervyn Dillon, suffered a broken jaw. However, the man inspirationally came out to bowl despite bearing a lot of pain and delivered 14 overs, picking up the wicket of Brian Lara.
'Jumbo', as he was affectionately called for the ability to generate alarming bounce off the surface, thanked Laxman for his kind words.
"Thanks, Lax. You are no less. Enjoyed every bit of our partnership in the middle and your calm influence and positivity in the team," Kumble tweeted. "Was fortunate to have played in an era with you and other great teammates. Stay safe!"
Kumble played 132 Tests and 271 ODIs for India, taking 619 and 337 wickets in the two formats respectively.
The 49-year-old is currently the chairman of the International Cricket Council's (ICC) Cricket Committee.
