The smiling assassin is now the supreme leader. Anil Kumble got the highest honour in India cricket when his dream of becoming Test captain was finally realized.

But then he has the perfectattributes to be a good Test captain. With the kind of traits Kumble possesses, even if it is a stopgap arrangement to ensure that Dhoni is fully prepared before he gets it all, it might be a very long stopgap arrangement.

Patience: Kumble shows the virtue of patience, which is so integral to Test Cricket. How many times you have seen him slogging day in and day out on non-receptive tracks to get his way. Kumble invariably does. That shows the virtue of patience which is so ingrained in Kumble's personality. If it rubs onto the others in the team, it will be great for Indian cricket.

Aggression: You certainly can't become one of the best Test players of all times if you are not aggressive enough. Kumble may not be seen bad mouthing the opposition, but ensures that they have their hands full of trouble when he is bowling. Looks can be deceptive....as deceptive as some of his deliveries which threaten to spin but go on to hit the pads, or castle the stumps.

Courage: Kumble bowling with a bandaged jaw in the Caribbean was one of the most seen/admired pictures in cricketing history. It was symbolic of extreme courage in most testing of situations. A warrior who chose to stay got tremendous admiration and accolades. Kumble will expect the same from his men and that will stand India in good stead in Australia. A perfect rallying point for all those who live by the virtue of courage.

Acceptability: In a career spanning nearly two decades, it is rare to find a bowler as non-controversial as Kumble. Compare the modern breed like Warne, McGrath, Murali, Akhtar - controversial for their actions and/or action! Whereas, Kumble is the one who is respected by the fans and foes alike.

Ambition: When a man like Kumble says better late than never and it is a big honour, that means he knows justice is being done at least. It is rare to see a specialist bowler donning the mantle of captaincy despite perfect credentials. Kumble knows about it, and will go all the way to ensure that he does justice to the job in coming few months.

Perfect transition between two D's: Kumble is a perfect transition between two D's - Dravid and Dhoni. His appointment will provide a sense of security to the seniors that the meaning less senior-versus-Junior debate is no longer the clinching factor. With a 37-year-old captain as skipper, it will also give security to Dhoni that his chance to become test captain will eventually come.

So Kumble's appointment is a win-all situation for the Indian team. A situation sure to make everyone happy.