Kaif can still add lot of value to Test team: Kumble

Not many people would endorse the view that 31-year-old Mohammed Kaif can make a comeback in international cricket but former India captain Anil Kumble feels that the Uttar Pradesh batsman can prove to be a handful in the longer format.

"I still believe he can add a lot of value to the Test team, especially with Rahul having retired and a few other seniors not far away from retirement," Kumble told wisdenindia in an interview.

"Kaif is only 31, and I believe is the time when, as a batsman, you are nearing the peak of your powers. He has been consistent in domestic cricket, had a good last season, and he continues to be a brilliant fielder," Kumble added.

"As much as anything else, he has great attitude, so I don't see why they should not look at him in the Test level. He has been there, done that in the Test match arena, and he has the experience and the technique to do well as he has shown in the past.

"I can understand the selectors wanting to look ahead when it comes to the One-day game, but as far as Test cricket is concerned, Kaif is still a very good bat -- he is solid, has good technique, so why not give him another go?," he concluded.