"I am indebted to Dhoni for the rest of my life for what he gave me. He allowed me with the new ball to go head-on with Chris Gayle and 17 years later Anil bhai would be talking about the same episode," he fondly recalled.

"In Test cricket, we know his greatness. In T20s for India, his consistency over a while has been immense. The kind of aggression and attitude he brings onto the field help the team gain intensity," said Kumble.

Kumble emphasised the inexperience in England's bowling lineup, especially with young spinners like Hartley and Ahmed facing the daunting task of building pressure on India's formidable batting lineup.