India under Kumble should win against NZ, even Eng, Aus : Muralitharan

India are set to host heavyweights one by one as a long Test season that began against a ragtag West Indian team shifts back home. Starting with New Zealand this month, they are set to face England and Australia next - in total, India will play 13 Tests in the upcoming season. Muttiah Muralitharan, however, feels that Kumble's tactical acumen and knowledge of Indian conditions should help the Indian coach guide the team to victories in all three series.

"Kumble is clever and knows the conditions inside out. He knows exactly what to do. I think Indian team will do well in Kumble's guidance and definitely have a very good chance of winning the series not only against New Zealand, but also against England and Australia," Muralitharan told media when he visited Kolkata for Cricket Association of Bengal's Vision 2020 programme.

He also reserved praise for Virat Kohli's form and pointed out the spinners and home conditions as additional factors to bolster his prediction.

Kohli has been doing well and India are winning matches abroad. That's what you want. I think India have a big advantage. Their spinners are better while the batters know the conditions well.

Murali, who has been involved with Bengal cricket over years, was also asked about the upcoming domestic season where Ranji matches will be played at neutral venues - a controversial change so far. However, he gave it a thumbs up and said, "It gives you a chance to learn more about different venues, wickets so that they can apply themselves in a better way,” reported PTI.