Who Is Anshul Kamboj? Age, Background, and Rise
As India prepares for the critical 4th Test against England at Old Trafford in July 2025, Anshul Kamboj has emerged as a surprise inclusion in the squad. At just 24, this Haryana-born allrounder is on the verge of becoming India’s 318th Test cricketer. But who is Anshul Kamboj, and how did he climb from obscurity to the national spotlight? This article explores about Anshul Kamboj age, background, career milestones, and why he’s been chosen for this pivotal match.
Anshul Kamboj’s Early Life and Roots
Born on December 6, 2000, in Fazilpur village, Karnal, Haryana, Anshul Kamboj is 24 years and 229 days old. Growing up in a modest family, he walked 8 km daily or took buses to train at a cricket academy in Karnal. Supported by his parents, Udham Singh and Pinky, Kamboj’s early sacrifices fueled his passion, shaping him into a disciplined athlete with a fierce cricketing instinct.
Anshul Kamboj’s Cricketing Profile
Full Name: Anshul Kamboj
Age: 24 years
Born: December 6, 2000, Karnal, Haryana
Batting Style: Right-hand Bat
Bowling Style: Right-arm Medium
Playing Role: Allrounder
Teams Represented: Haryana, India A, India Under-19s, Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings
Kamboj, a tall right-arm medium pacer, is known for his seam movement, control, and stamina for long spells. His ability to contribute with the bat as a lower-order allrounder adds depth to his game, making him a versatile asset in Test cricket.
How Anshul Kamboj Rose Through Domestic and IPL Ranks
Kamboj’s journey began with Haryana, where he debuted in first-class cricket against Tripura in February 2022. His defining moment came in November 2024, when he took all 10 wickets in a Ranji Trophy innings against Kerala (10/49), becoming only the third bowler in the tournament’s history to achieve this feat. His domestic record is impressive:
First-Class Matches: 24
Wickets: 79
Average: 22.88
Best Performance: 10/49 vs Kerala
In the 2023-24 Vijay Hazare Trophy, Kamboj claimed 17 wickets in 10 matches, helping Haryana win the title. His India A tour to England in 2025 saw him take five wickets in two matches and score an unbeaten 51 against England Lions, highlighting his allround prowess.
In the IPL, Kamboj debuted for Mumbai Indians in 2024, playing three matches.
His 16 wickets in three Duleep Trophy matches earned him a ₹3.4 crore deal with Chennai Super Kings in the IPL 2025 auction. Under MS Dhoni’s guidance, he played eight matches, taking eight wickets at an economy rate of 8.00, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
Why Anshul Kamboj Was Picked for India’s 4th Test vs England
India’s pace unit faced challenges ahead of the 4th Test, with Arshdeep Singh out due to a hand injury, Akash Deep battling a groin issue, and Nitish Kumar Reddy sidelined. Trailing 2-1 in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, India needed a reliable third seamer to support Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj. Kamboj, recently recovered from a shin injury, was flown to Manchester as cover.
His 45-minute net session at Old Trafford, where he bowled consistently to India’s top order, impressed coach Gautam Gambhir and selectors. Kamboj’s experience in English conditions from the India A tour and his ability to hit tight lines made him a strong candidate for a debut.
Endorsements from Cricket Legends
Ravichandran Ashwin, who mentored Kamboj at CSK, praised his tactical nous, comparing him to Zaheer Khan and Jasprit Bumrah. “Anshul’s game awareness is rare for a fast bowler. He’s in cracking form and can execute plans perfectly,” Ashwin said on Ash Ki Baat. MS Dhoni also lauded Kamboj’s seam movement, noting, “His ball hits harder than the speed gun shows.” Kamboj’s coach, Satish Rana, described him as a blend of Dhoni’s calmness and Glenn McGrath’s aggression.
Struggles of Other Pacers
Prasidh Krishna, a contender for the third seamer’s spot, underperformed in the first two Tests, taking six wickets at an average of 55.16 and an economy rate of 5.33. His inconsistency prompted selectors to consider Kamboj, whose domestic form and adaptability in England’s conditions tipped the scales in his favor.
Anshul Kamboj’s Path to a Potential Test Debut
Kamboj’s selection reflects his consistent domestic performances and allround ability. With 79 wickets in 24 first-class matches and valuable lower-order runs, he brings balance to the team. His net sessions alongside Bumrah and Siraj, under the watchful eyes of Gambhir and selector Ajit Agarkar, signal his readiness for the big stage.
If handed a debut on July 23, 2025, Kamboj’s journey from walking miles to train in Karnal to wearing India’s Test jersey will be complete. Inspired by Dhoni’s advice to “stay fit and keep it simple,” Kamboj stands poised to make an impact.
Conclusion
Anshul Kamboj’s rise from a Haryana village to the cusp of a Test debut is a story of grit, talent, and opportunity. Backed by cricketing giants like Ashwin and Dhoni, the 24-year-old allrounder is ready to bolster India’s bowling attack in a must-win Test. Whether he debuts at Old Trafford or not, Kamboj’s journey inspires, proving that dedication and skill can transform dreams into reality.