Anshul Kamboj Achieves Dream with Test Debut for India Against England
Anshul Kamboj's Journey to Test Cricket
Young Indian fast bowler Anshul Kamboj has realized his aspiration of representing Team India by receiving his first Test cap during the fourth match of the series against England at Old Trafford, Manchester, on July 23.
Kamboj was included in the Indian squad for the last two Tests of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy following a series of injuries that affected the team. All-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy was ruled out for the rest of the series due to a knee injury, while Arshdeep Singh and Akash Deep were also unavailable for the Manchester Test due to their respective injuries.
In light of the injury crisis, Kamboj was brought into the squad as a replacement and ultimately made his international debut, marking a significant milestone in his cricketing career.
Anshul Kamboj: Test Cap No. 318
On the eve of the Test, Team India captain Shubman Gill hinted at Kamboj's potential debut, praising the 24-year-old's abilities that could contribute to the team's success.
Gill stated, "We have seen his skill set. We believe he can help us win matches. Kamboj is close to making his debut tomorrow. You will see if it is him or Prasidh Krishna."
As the first day of the fourth Test approached, it was confirmed that Kamboj would indeed debut for India. Former wicketkeeper-batter and commentator Deep Dasgupta presented Test Cap 318 to Kamboj in a heartfelt ceremony, celebrated by his teammates.
Kamboj's Inspiring Journey from Karnal to Manchester
Hailing from Karnal, Haryana, a city renowned for nurturing sporting talent, Kamboj's path to cricket stardom was fraught with challenges.
In a video shared by a sports channel prior to his debut, Kamboj recounted the difficulties he faced during his early playing days, including long commutes for practice. He credited his father's unwavering support for his success.
"When I began playing cricket, I had to travel a lot. It took me an hour each way. I tried to dedicate as much time as possible to cricket," Kamboj explained. He acknowledged the significant role his father, family, and coach played in motivating him.
Kamboj's hard work paid off when he made his first-class debut for Haryana in the Ranji Trophy against Tripura in February 2022, followed by his T20 debut in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy later that year.
A Stellar Domestic Season Precedes Test Debut
Kamboj had an outstanding domestic season in 2024/25, excelling in both the Ranji Trophy and Duleep Trophy. He took 34 wickets in the Ranji Trophy, including two four-wicket hauls and a ten-wicket haul, with an impressive average of 13.79.
In a remarkable feat against Kerala, Kamboj became only the third bowler to take all ten wickets in an innings, achieving figures of 10/49.
In the Duleep Trophy, he emerged as the leading wicket-taker with 16 wickets at an average of 17.12. His exceptional performances earned him a spot in India A's unofficial Tests against the England Lions, although he was ultimately overlooked for the Headingley Test.
Throughout his first-class career, Kamboj has claimed 79 wickets, including two five-wicket hauls and a ten-wicket haul, with an average of 22.88.