From legspin to leopard trails, Anil Kumble takes up a new role

Dubai: From hunting down wickets to protecting wild cats, Anil Kumble’s journey has come full circle. The former India captain, long known for his love of wildlife, has now been named Karnataka’s Forest and Wildlife Ambassador — and he’s doing it all for free.

Kumble, who’s just as comfortable with a camera in the wild as he was with the ball in hand, took to X (formerly Twitter) to thank the state government and Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre for the honour.

“I will strive to continue my work towards creating awareness about the diversity of flora and fauna of our state,” wrote Kumble, promising to support both wildlife conservation and forest personnel.

The Kumble household clearly has the bug — his son Mayas released a coffee table book titled Safari Saga: Wild Encounters Of A Young Photographer in 2022. Anil himself has long been active in conservation circles, even serving as Vice Chairman of the Karnataka Wildlife Board.

Forest Minister Khandre said Kumble’s passion for nature and reputation as a public figure made him the perfect pick — especially since he agreed to take on the role purely for social good.

“This decision will give a new direction and vitality to forest conservation, wildlife protection, and environmental awareness in our state,” the minister said in a post on X.