Anshul Kamboj earns praise, test call-up confirmed

In a glowing endorsement, former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has lauded uncapped fast bowler Anshul Kamboj, likening him to the likes of Zaheer Khan and Jasprit Bumrah. Kamboj stands out, Ashwin believes, not just for his skillfulness but for his deep understanding of game plans, a trait not commonly found among many fast bowlers. Kamboj was newly inducted into the Indian squad for the upcoming fourth Test against England in Manchester. This change comes due to injuries plaguing all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy and the pacers Akash Deep and Arshdeep Singh.

"What's appreciable about Anshul is his grasp of the plan," Ashwin remarked on his YouTube channel 'Ash Ki Baat'. "Many fast bowlers often speak about wanting to express themselves and enjoy the game when asked about their strategies. But Anshul has a clear understanding of the plans and knows how to execute them. It's a rare quality, reminiscent of Zaheer Khan. He was extraordinary," added Ashwin.

He further elaborated, "In modern times, Jassi (Bumrah) is one such player known for his perfect execution of plans. Anshul fits into that category. While I am not comparing their skills, which are distinct, Anshul has the mindset."

The 24-year-old Kamboj has turned heads leading into the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy with noteworthy performance for India A against the England Lions. Across four innings in Northampton and Canterbury, he secured five wickets, capitalizing on late movement and bounce. "His 'tappa' (length) is exceptional," Ashwin noted, referencing his experience in the IPL. "His wrist position is impressive, maintaining an upright seam, making him a tough opponent."

With Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj already in the lineup, Ashwin believes Kamboj would add a significant edge to the bowling attack for the fourth Test. "If Anshul is included, this becomes a formidable bowling line-up," Ashwin declared. He praised Kamboj's domestic achievements, notably a 10-wicket haul in an innings against Kerala last year in a Ranji Trophy match at Lahli.

"People might point out Anshul's lack of Test experience, particularly in English conditions. But he was part of the 'A' tour and has been in exceptional form in first-class cricket, averaging around 13," Ashwin explained.

Highlighting Kamboj's ability to bowl lengthy spells, Ashwin said, "In England, you need the stamina to bowl long spells. Anshul can do that and will provide an excellent complement to Bumrah and Siraj. Though Prasidh Krishna remains an option, I'd advocate for Anshul."

However, Ashwin cautioned about managing Kamboj's nerves should he debut. "One task for the management will be to keep Anshul calm," he emphasized.

India is trailing 1-2 in the five-match series, with the fourth Test set to begin in Manchester on Wednesday.

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