Even before play started on the third day of the third and final Test between India and South Africa at Green Park, there were speculations as regards Anil Kumble [Images].

As a television channel claimed to have footage of him leaving the team hotel early on Sunday, everyone concerned was in a denial mode. There was a mad scramble as other channels tried to get a follow up on the development.

India's Test captain Kumble, who missed the final Test owing to a recurring groin injury, was apparently seen leaving the hotel with his luggage. Other sources claimed he was leaving for Bangalore in order to have treatment.

However, Kumble subsequently returned to the hotel. The team management denied that the captain had any plans to leave and a board official confirmed that he would stay put till the match was over.

"Kumble didn't leave the team hotel at any time. He was present in his room all the while," said a team offical. "There is no truth in these rumours."

But the "rumours" refused to subside.