Keen to put behind him the disappointment of being overlooked for most part of the World Cup in South Africa, ace legspinner Anil Kumble today said he is looking forward to the forthcoming home series against New Zealand.

"It's a long time before we play international cricket... that's in September-October. I am looking forward to it [the New Zealand series]," he said after inaugurating the World Environment Day celebrations at the upmarket Commercial Street in Bangalore.

Asked if he would be available for the series, Kumble shot back: "Yes! What makes you think I won't be there?"

"I have just come back from a holiday abroad and it's good to be spending some time with the family," said Kumble, who was overlooked in preference for a seventh batsman in the World Cup.

Unlike many of the cricketers in the national side, Kumble does not have any plans of playing in the English county circuit. "No plans, nothing," he said.

Kumble refrained from commenting on the recommendation of the spinners' panel, comprising some of India's legendary spinners, that no limited overs cricket should be played up to the under-17 level. "I was supposed to be part of the team, but I was not in India then. I don't know what went up. I am not aware of that," he said.