Sports

Anshul Kamboj Shines in Auckland ODI, Turning Early Struggles into Success

By Bhaskar English

Indian fast bowler Anshul Kamboj, 25, delivered a standout performance in the Auckland ODI against New Zealand, conceding only 22 runs and taking two wickets in 10 overs, including two maidens. Kamboj increased his pace from 125 km/h in the Manchester Test to 140 km/h in Auckland and maintained a consistent line and length throughout his spell. He was named Player of the Match.

Kamboj’s early international career was challenging. He was called into the fourth Test in Manchester in July 2025 as a replacement for the injured Arshdeep Singh, but his deliveries were only around 125 km/h, below the expected 135–140 km/h. His coach, Satish Rana, noted a lack of rhythm in his run‑up and shortened it by about two yards, focusing on fitness and consistent length.

Born on 6 December 2000 in Karnal, Haryana, Kamboj debuted for Haryana in the Ranji Trophy in February 2022. He took 17 wickets in 10 matches in the 2023‑24 Vijay Hazare Trophy, helping Haryana win the tournament for the first time. In November 2024 he became the third bowler in Ranji history to take all 10 wickets in an innings, finishing 10‑for‑49 against Kerala. He has been selected by the Mumbai Indians for IPL 2024 and later joined the Chennai Super Kings.

Kamboj made his ODI debut against the West Indies in October 2026, but initial performances were below expectations. Captain Shubman Gill supported him, noting that immediate success is rare for new players and highlighting Kamboj’s ability to bat at number eight.

During the New Zealand tour, Kamboj had more preparation time. After playing a Test for India A, he travelled from Lincoln to Auckland on 31 October and practiced before the match. In the ODI, he bowled his first spell in the eighth over, conceding 12 runs in five overs with one maiden but no wickets. Returning later, he bowled at 140 km/h, taking the wicket of Nathan Smith after a wobble‑seam delivery that exploited good pitch bounce. Virat Kohli caught Smith at slip.

Kamboj explained that his focus was on delivering consistent line and length rather than reacting to pitch conditions. He emphasized that one match does not define a career and that he has been working on the same fundamentals since the Manchester Test.