Irfan Pathan Praises Anshul Kamboj's Performance in First ODI Against New Zealand

In a recent match against New Zealand, Anshul Kamboj impressed with his bowling, earning praise from former all-rounder Irfan Pathan. Kamboj's performance, which included 2 wickets for 22 runs, has sparked discussions about his potential inclusion in the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup squad. Pathan emphasized the importance of allowing Kamboj time to adjust to international cricket after a challenging debut. With Kohli's strong batting and effective bowling from Arshdeep Singh, India secured a victory in the rain-affected match. Read on to discover more about Kamboj's journey and future prospects in cricket.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 5, 2026, 13:29 IST

Kamboj's Impressive ODI Spell

On November 5, in Mumbai, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan commended Anshul Kamboj for his outstanding bowling performance against New Zealand in the first ODI. Pathan suggested that if Kamboj continues to excel, he might catch the selectors' attention for the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup.

Kamboj showcased his skills in Auckland, taking 2 wickets for just 22 runs in 10 overs, with an impressive 46 dot balls. The Chennai Super Kings player managed to shake off the nerves associated with his international debut, delivering a performance that could secure him a spot in the bowling lineup as the World Cup approaches, which will be jointly hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.

In a video interview with Cricinfo, Pathan noted that Kamboj needed more time to adjust after long travel before stepping into Test cricket. His Test debut last year was less than stellar, where he bowled 18 overs, conceding 89 runs at an average of nearly five runs per over as an injury replacement.

Pathan praised Kamboj's abilities with both the new and old ball, as well as his skills in the death overs, expressing confidence that he will advance in his career.

"He will undoubtedly be one of the key bowlers. We must consider the circumstances of his Test match debut. Adjusting to the climate and recovering from travel takes time for any bowler. Anshul needed more time to acclimatize to Test cricket," he explained.

"What I appreciate about him is his capability to bowl effectively with the new ball and his impressive death bowling skills, as demonstrated with CSK. He can bowl wide yorkers and effectively utilize the old ball. He has the complete package and can also seam the ball. If he continues on this path, it wouldn't be surprising if selectors consider him for the World Cup squad. He is certainly a contender," he concluded.

Previously, Kamboj faced challenges during his debut ODI against the West Indies, where he was hit for 82 runs in nine overs, with skipper Shai Hope scoring 42 runs off him in just 31 balls, including six fours. His performances in both Test and ODI formats had not lived up to the expectations set by his IPL and domestic records.

In the rain-affected first ODI of the five-match series at Auckland, India triumphed over New Zealand, thanks to Virat Kohli's commanding 74 runs and stellar bowling from Arshdeep Singh and Anshul Kamboj. Arshdeep led the bowling attack with four wickets, while Gurnoor Brar took three wickets, and Kamboj contributed with two, helping to restrict New Zealand to 185 runs. Kohli's innings of 74 off 51 balls, featuring 13 fours, guided India to chase down a revised target of 143 runs in 32 overs.