When Anshul Kamboj was picked to play for India on July 23 in the fourth Test against England at Old Trafford, it was more than just a debut – it was the arrival of a fast bowler shaped by years of relentless grind, deep discipline, and powerful promise.
At 24, the Haryana pacer has earned a surprise call-up to India’s squad following injuries to Arshdeep Singh and Akash Deep, reported NDTV.
Backed by former India spinner R. Ashwin, who likened Anshul’s game sense to that of the country’s top fast bowlers Zaheer Khan and Jasprit Bumrah, Anshul enters with weighty expectations.
Ashwin lauded Anshul’s sharp wrist position, upright seam, and ability to execute plans with precision – qualities vital on English wickets.
Anshul first grabbed headlines with a historic 10-wicket haul in a domestic Ranji Trophy innings against Kerala – just the third such feat in the tournament’s 91-year history.
Since then, he has taken 79 wickets in 24 First-Class matches at an average of 22.88. In this year’s Indian Premier League, he was a steady performer for Chennai Super Kings, and impressed further during India A’s unofficial Tests against England Lions earlier this year.
Born in Fazilpur, Haryana, Anshul’s journey began with 80-kilometre daily commutes to train under coach Satish Rana, reported The Print.
His father, a farmer and cricket fanatic, instilled in him the drive that transformed a “healthy boy” into a pace-bowling machine.
The moniker AK 47 – a play on his initials and jersey number – was his coach’s idea, symbolic of the firepower Anshul brings.
His discipline is the stuff of lore. “I don’t remember him ever taking a day off,” says Rana. “He would reach the ground before everyone else and stay until late evening.”
Despite missing the U-19 World Cup due to injury, Anshul bounced back with steely resolve.
IPL stints with Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings, as well as mentorships under MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli, helped shape his mental game.
His ability to bowl long spells and remain unfazed under pressure could prove crucial for India as they attempt to level the series 2-2.
