India’s promising fast bowler Anshul Kamboj is on the verge of making his Test debut in the crucial fourth Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy against England.
The 24-year-old pacer was spotted bowling at full throttle during a net session on July 21, just a day before the Manchester Test, hinting at his likely inclusion in the playing XI.
Kamboj’s strong case for debut comes in the wake of an injury-hit Indian pace department. Nitish Kumar Reddy has been ruled out due to a knee injury, while Akash Deep is still recovering from a groin strain. Arshdeep Singh is also doubtful for the match after reportedly injuring his bowling hand during practice.
Kamboj’s Rise and Readiness
Anshul Kamboj had a breakthrough performance earlier this year in the India A vs England Lions series, where he picked up five wickets across three innings, impressing selectors with his discipline, consistency, and seam movement. He was added to the senior squad as a backup option but now finds himself on the brink of a debut.
A video of him bowling with impressive pace and control in the nets has gone viral, adding fuel to speculation about his selection.
Series Context: Must-Win Match for India
England currently lead the five-match series 2-1, having clinched victories at Headingley and Lord’s, while India bounced back with a memorable win in the second Test at Edgbaston.
In the last Test, India stumbled during a fourth-innings chase of 192, collapsing despite a gritty 61-run knock by Ravindra Jadeja.
With the series on the line and several first-choice pacers sidelined, Kamboj’s debut could provide fresh firepower to India’s pace attack — and possibly a turning point in the series.
