With key pacers Arshdeep Singh and Akash Deep ruled out due to injury, the Indian team had no choice but to look beyond their current squad to bolster the pace attack for the crucial fourth Test in Manchester. While Harshit Rana was earlier part of the squad, the selectors decided to bring in Haryana’s emerging all-rounder Anshul Kamboj, a move that has sparked interest among fans and experts alike.
Anshul Kamboj’s Rise: From Ranji Glory to India A Standout
Kamboj has been on a sharp upward curve in Indian domestic cricket. He first made headlines by taking all 10 wickets in an innings during a Ranji Trophy clash against Kerala, becoming a rare name in Indian cricket history. Since then, his form has only improved.
In the second unofficial Test for India A, Kamboj returned with figures of 4/62 and also scored his maiden first-class half-century, showcasing his all-round credentials. The 24-year-old has already taken 79 wickets in just 24 first-class matches at an average of 22.88, a stat that underlines his consistency.
Former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin didn’t hold back in his praise. Speaking on his Hindi YouTube show Ash Ki Baat, Ashwin said, “With Bumrah and Siraj there, if you are bringing in Anshul Kamboj into the playing XI, I’m telling you, it’s a serious bowling attack.”
Ashwin Compares Kamboj to Zaheer Khan and Bumrah
Ashwin highlighted one of Kamboj’s most valuable traits—his cricketing intelligence and tactical mindset.
“The most appreciable thing about Anshul Kamboj is that he understands the plan,” said Ashwin. “I have seen so many bowlers who, even after playing 30–40 Tests, don’t get the plan. But Anshul is cut from a different cloth. He reminds me of Zaheer Khan and Jasprit Bumrah—guys who not only understand the plan but execute it to perfection.”
That’s high praise from someone like Ashwin, and it speaks volumes about what the Indian team management sees in Kamboj.
Ashwin also emphasized Kamboj’s ability to bowl long spells—an essential quality for conditions in England. “He’s not just a quick bowler; he’s a thinker. In England, you need bowlers who can sustain pressure over long spells, and Kamboj can be the perfect foil for Siraj and Bumrah.”
Test Debut in Sight
Kamboj is now in line for a Test debut in Manchester, where India will look to bounce back in the ongoing series against England. With the pitch likely to assist seam movement, India’s pace trio—possibly including Bumrah, Siraj, and Kamboj—could pose a major threat.
Whether or not he gets the final nod for the XI, one thing is clear: Anshul Kamboj is no longer just a domestic cricket sensation—he’s knocking hard on the international door.
