It was a small engrossing battle between two of India's champion performers under fading lights. Anil Kumble used all his guiles to get the better of VVS Laxman, one of the finest players of spin and there were glances and nods of approval from both parties.

The eagerness for self-improvement and help to improve the other was visible in their movements. But the bondage between Laxman and Kumble dates back to a wonderful evening at the Feroze Shah Kotla stadium when the former played his part in an historic event.

It was Laxman who pounced upon the catch offered by Wasim Akram at forward short leg helping Kumble to complete the 10-wicket haul. Eight passing summers have not faded Laxman's memories of that moment of history, and the grin widens at the mention of that day.

‘Role model’
"It was special feeling for the entire team, as his 10-for had come against Pakistan. Kumble has always been a perfect team man and a role model. I was also very happy that I took the last catch to give him 10th wicket. It was a special moment for me," Laxman told Deccan Herald.

Would he like to take an all important catch once again? The answer was a pleasant laughter, followed by: "Why not?"

Another person, who watched the action from close quarters, has quit international cricket, but Venkatesh Prasad is with the team as a bowling coach. The Bangalore paceman has always been proud of his nagging accuracy and even now emphasis the value of accuracy to his wards.

But on that day, Prasad put aside the basics of pace bowling, and aimed his deliveries well outside the off-stump. On any other day, he would have invited reprimand, but back then even coach Anshuman Gaekwad encouraged him to continue bowling outside the off-stump.

Prasad vividly recollects the day. "It was a great feeling for all of us, especially with a true team player like Anil getting that rare mark. We all tried our best to ensure that Anil get that record, with me and Sri (Javagal Srinath) bowling wide outside the off-stump. We were all very happy at the end of the day: We won the Test, Anil's record. Yes, it was one of the most happy days of my career," Prasad said.

Perhaps, it is a coincidence that Kumble will make his debut as Test captain at Feroze Shah Kotla. But for Kumble, it was business as usual on Tuesday. The Bangalorean engaged in his usual routines, and the only change was the increased number of lenses that zoomed on him. For once, Kumble was getting his due attention, and perhaps, the time is ripe for another great spell.