3rd Test: Anil Kumble does not want to curb 'natural instincts' of his players

Ranchi, Mar 14: India coach Anil Kumble today, March 14, said there was no need for his team to curb its aggression despite the din over on-field behaviour in what is turning out to be an intensely-fought Test series against Australia.

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"I don't want to curb any natural instinct of the players as long as they go out there and do what is expected of them. I don't think we need to read too much into the aggression. Every player has his own way of having a game face," Kumble said ahead of the third Test.

The big-ticket series is poised at 1-1, with everything to play for in the remaining two matches. On aggression, Kumble added, "And that's what you want. You want everyone to go out there and show what they are capable of.

"This is a very important series. It's 1-1. Both teams will come hard in this game. I'm sure cricket will be the winner."

The DRS controversy surrounding Steve Smith's dismissal threatened to overshadow India's fightback, eventually prompting BCCI and Cricket Australia to issue a joint statement to bring the matter to an end.

"As custodians of this great game, we believe it's important that we look after the game. Key stakeholders are the players and they certainly understand their responsibility," the former India captain told reporters.

Kumble lauded the BCCI for taking a "matured call" and bring the focus back to cricket. "I think what was important was to focus back on the game.

"I am very glad the BCCI took a very matured call with Cricket Australia and issued a joint statement that cricket needs to move on and moved out from whatever happened in Bangalore.

"That I think is important because focus has to be on the game. I thought we made a really fantastic comeback after losing the first Test. It was very rewarding," he said.

Asked if Smith and Virat Kohli would meet before the town's maiden Test, Kumble responded in positive.

"Yes they will meet." Kumble said the team was not affected by the talks around DRS and pitches used in the two Test.

"It doesn't affect our game. We only want to play. We are not doing the talking but you are. We are just playing and thinking about the game on the field," the coach said.

PTI