May 01, 2008	Thursday	Rabi-us-Sani 24, 1429

NEW DELHI, April 30: Record-breaking Sri Lankan off-spinner Muttiah Muralitharan said on Wednesday he plans to team up with Indian counterpart Anil Kumble to coach spinners when he retires from international cricket.

“I will do a little bit for the game, not for money but for enjoyment,” Muralitharan told the Mumbai-based Daily News and Analysis newspaper.

“I’ve already spoken to Anil and we will try and get together and do some coaching in the spin department.

“He is one of the greatest bowlers I have seen and he knows a lot. We will see which country needs help. We are looking at the subcontinent countries and academies.”

The Sri Lankan off-spinner is the world’s leading bowler in Tests with 735 wickets in 120 matches. He is followed by retired Australian Shane Warne (708) and Kumble (608).

Murali is also the second-highest wicket-taker in ODIs with 464 scalps in 305 games after Pakistan’s Wasim Akram (502).

Coaching bowling is not about technique but about how to use the conditions, he said.

“When both of us call it a day we will look at coaching together. Hopefully, it will help future generations,” he added.

Muralitharan further said his twin objectives were to reach 800 Test wickets and surpass Wasim’s one-day record.

“I am targeting 800 Test wickets. If I get that I will be very happy. Then I will try for a few more wickets in ODIs to get the world record of Wasim,” he added.

When asked whether he would call it a day after achieving these aims, he said: “I think so. Looking ahead there is no future because if some bowlers are coming through in Sri Lanka I would like to give them a chance.—AFP