Royal Challengers Bangalore skipper Anil Kumble exudes confidence ahead of the Airtel CL T20 in South Africa.

Q: You started as a medium pacer. Why did you change to bowling leg-spinners?
   
Anil Kumble: Yes, I started as a medium pacer as that is an obvious choice when the ball is first thrown at you. However, senior cricketers advised me to become a spinner. I was once called for suspect action; this also had a part to play. My brother Dinesh wanted me to be a leg-spinner as Karnataka was short of leg-spinners at that time.

Q: After an illustrious Test career, how did you adapt to T20 cricket?

AK: Initially the thought of bowling just four overs was tough. It used to take me four overs to warm up. And here you would finish your spell. At times, you bowl just a one over spell. It's more of a change in the mindset rather than trying to adapt. It took me a few games to get used to the concept.

Q:You think that it is easy for a Test player to adapt to a T20 cricket than the other way around?

AK: Yes. Test cricket is the real test of your skills. You have to constantly improve to survive at that level. The transition for a Test player to T20 cricket is easier.

Q: You lead a team which has players like Jacques Kallis, Ross Taylor and Kevein Pietersen. What do these players bring to the squad?

AK: These are all great player at the international level. Youngsters in the team look up to them. Kallis is the best all-rounder in the world right now and he brings in a wealth of experience. Players like Taylor and Pietersen bring a fearless attitude and Dale Styen has intimidating speed. We are a very talented bunch

Q: What is your take on the Airtel Champions League Twenty20?

AK: Well it gives the IPL teams a chance to play together again and other domestic teams get a chance to play with international cricketers.

Q: How was the experience last time?

AK: It was very good but unfortunately we lost the tournament last time. The format was new and we lost some crucial games at the start of the tournament.

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