It's been a tough journey, Anshul Kamboj's brother says after fast bowler added to Indian squad

Dubai: There was jubilation at Anshul Kamboj’s home as the Haryana pacer received his maiden call-up to the Indian Test squad for the fourth match against England. The 24-year-old’s inclusion brought immense joy to his family, who have witnessed his long and dedicated journey to this moment.

“It’s been a tough journey,” his brother Sanyam told IANS. “Every morning, he’d be at practice, spending the entire day on the ground working hard. He’d return home only at night, completely exhausted. We’re all overjoyed. It’s a dream come true for us—there are no words to express this feeling.”

Kamboj, who has taken 79 wickets in 24 first-class matches, recently featured for India A in two three-day matches, where he claimed five wickets. His impressive domestic form, especially in the Vijay Hazare Trophy last season where he picked up 17 wickets in 10 games and played a key role in Haryana’s title win, brought him into the spotlight. He also performed well in the Emerging Men’s Asia Cup in Oman, taking four wickets in three matches.

“India A seamer, #AnshulKamboj has been added to the Indian squad as a cover ahead of the 4th Test vs England at Manchester!” Star Sports confirmed his selection on social media.

Kamboj made his first-class debut for Haryana in February 2022 during the Ranji Trophy. Earlier this year, he was bought by Chennai Super Kings for a whopping ₹3.4 crore at the IPL 2025 mega auction held in Jeddah. He played eight games in the season, taking as many wickets at an average of 21.50 and an economy rate of 8.

His call-up comes at a time when India faces uncertainty over the fitness of several frontline pacers. Jasprit Bumrah’s participation in the fourth Test at Old Trafford remains undecided, and with other bowlers underperforming in previous games, the team management is weighing its options.

Arshdeep Singh, who was in contention for a spot, suffered a cut on his bowling hand during Thursday’s practice session. “He tried to stop a ball off Sai and ended up with a cut,” said India’s assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate. “The medical team took him to see a doctor. Whether he needs stitches or not will affect our plans.”

Meanwhile, Akash Deep is also a doubtful starter due to a groin niggle. During the third Test at Lord’s, he left the field in the 28th over of England’s innings after experiencing discomfort. Though he returned later, he didn’t bowl again.

India trails 2-1 in the five-match series after a narrow 22-run defeat at Lord’s in the third Test.