From Karnal Nets to National Dreams

Anshul Kamboj’s cricket story isn’t built on hype, it’s built on numbers, grit, and timing. Born in Karnal’s Fazilpur village, Kamboj grew up bowling on dusty academy pitches. He quickly developed a reputation for sharp swing and stamina. Now, just days ahead of the fourth Test at Old Trafford, he’s on the cusp of a breakthrough no fast bowler forgets: a debut in whites.

The 10-Wicket Statement
Kamboj first caught attention in the 2023–24 Ranji Trophy, when he claimed a stunning 10 for 49 in a single innings. He is only the third such feat in the tournament’s history. That performance wasn’t a flash in the pan. Over 22 first-class matches, he has grabbed 74 wickets at 22.66, showing the kind of consistency selectors crave.

His standout spells for India A, including those against England Lions earlier this year, only reinforced his case. Kamboj outshone the likes of Harshit Rana and Shardul Thakur in those unofficial Tests. He keeps making sure his name stayed in the mix.

IPL Experience, Test Readiness
Though still new to the IPL scene, Kamboj impressed during his 2024 stint with Mumbai Indians before being bought by Chennai Super Kings in 2025 for ₹3.4 crore. Across 11 IPL matches, he bagged 10 wickets, bowling with discipline and adapting to pressure,  skills that could now serve him well in the longest format.

Old Trafford on the Horizon
Injuries to India’s pace attack have opened the door. With Arshdeep Singh ruled out and Bumrah being closely monitored, Kamboj was called up as a reserve for the last two Tests. But his training sessions in Manchester have turned heads. Conversations with Gautam Gambhir, high-energy net spells, and visible interaction with the team’s senior players have sparked speculation, will AK47 get his cap at Old Trafford?

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R Ashwin certainly thinks he’s ready. The veteran spinner recently said Kamboj has the “temperament of Zaheer, discipline of Bumrah”. A bold endorsement for a bowler yet to play a Test.

What Makes Him Special?
Kamboj doesn’t bowl 150 km/h. What he brings is control, sharp seam movement, and calm under pressure. At 1.89 metres tall, his natural bounce is already an asset and on English pitches that suit seamers, his tight lines and patience could prove decisive.

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