Anshul Kamboj Makes Historic Test Debut for India Against England
Anshul Kamboj's Emotional Test Debut
Karnal (Haryana) [India], July 24: The family of fast bowler Anshul Kamboj experienced a mix of pride and emotion as he took the field for his Test debut against England at Old Trafford, Manchester.
After consistently impressing in domestic cricket, Anshul finally received his long-awaited opportunity, a moment his coach and family had eagerly anticipated.
His childhood coach, Satish Rana, expressed his joy, stating, “We are incredibly proud today as our dream has materialized. Anshul Kamboj has debuted for India… I have faith he will excel in this match… Anshul is a dedicated player who has always heeded my guidance.”
Known for his strong discipline and work ethic, Kamboj has quietly climbed the ranks, earning a reputation as a reliable fast bowler. His younger brother, Sanyam, shared their family's excitement.
“We are overjoyed… He practiced diligently and put in a lot of effort… It’s crucial for India to win this match; otherwise, they risk losing the series,” Sanyam Kamboj remarked.
As India strives to keep the series alive, Anshul's debut injects new energy into the team. With England leading the series 2-1, India must elevate their performance against a formidable English side.
The Indian team is missing pace-bowling all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy due to a left knee injury, along with pacer Akash Deep, who is sidelined with a groin issue.
Akash had previously achieved a ten-wicket haul at Edgbaston earlier in the series. Additionally, left-arm quick Arshdeep Singh's Test debut has been postponed due to injury. Shardul Thakur has stepped in for Reddy as an all-rounder, while Kamboj has received his first international cap.
Kamboj is recognized for his ability to maintain traditional lengths and generate movement off the pitch. He was part of the India A squad for two unofficial Tests against the England Lions, where he shone in the second match, taking four wickets, including two in one over. He also showcased his batting skills, forming an unbeaten 149-run partnership with Tanush Kotian and scoring a half-century.
During the 2024-25 Ranji Trophy season, Kamboj took 34 wickets in six matches, finishing as the leading wicket-taker in the 2024-25 Duleep Trophy. He made history by becoming only the third Indian to claim all ten wickets in an innings against Kerala. In First-Class cricket, Kamboj has achieved 79 wickets in 24 matches, averaging 22.88 with a strike rate of 44.2 and an economy of 3.10.