Part 6/14:
A keen advocate of data-driven strategies, Kumble shared his journey with numbers. "Cricket has embraced technology," he noted, praising tools like speed guns and software that analyze each delivery. His own use of data was pioneering—tagging every ball, assessing patterns like angles and lengths, and tailoring strategies to batters' weaknesses. He revealed that even during his playing career, laptops and software like his company Spectacom’s tools were integral to planning and improvement.
Kumble emphasized that data enhances team meetings and helps analyze matchups. Although cricket still leaves room for “gut feelings,” data now informs every tactical decision, especially in the IPL where auction strategies are deeply analytical.