Kamboj replaces injured Akash Deep and Arshdeep for 4th Test
Kamboj replaces injured Akash Deep and Arshdeep for 4th Test
Young fast bowler Anshul Kamboj has been added to the Indian squad for the remaining two Tests in England as a cover for the uncapped Arshdeep Singh and Akash Deep. Akash Deep is undergoing a fitness test under the supervision of bowling coach Morne Morkel and the team physio ahead of the fourth Test.
India’s plans for the fourth Test have hit a snag, with fast bowlers Akash Deep and Arshdeep Singh likely to miss the match due to injuries. As a backup, the selectors have added Haryana pacer Anshul Kamboj to the squad for the last two Tests of the series.
Arshdeep injured his bowling hand during training in Beckenham, while Akash Deep is dealing with a groin issue. The fourth Test at Old Trafford, starting July 23, is crucial India must win to level the series or risk losing the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.
Arshdeep, who hasn’t played a Test yet, was in line to play if Akash Deep was ruled out. But now both are doubtful. Akash Deep helped India win in Birmingham with 10 wickets, but had a quieter game at Lord’s and needed treatment during the match.
At practice, Akash Deep didn’t bowl or bat and only did fitness work. Arshdeep began bowling but had to stop after hurting his hand his bowling hand was taped afterwards.
India now has a big decision to make about playing Jasprit Bumrah in Manchester. The team is “leaning towards” including him, especially with the series on the line, but that will depend on weather and how fit the rest of the bowlers are.
Mohammed Siraj has played all three Tests so far and has bowled the most overs, so his workload needs careful management. Prasidh Krishna and Shardul Thakur are also in the squad, with Thakur playing the first Test in Leeds.
As for Kamboj he’s a 24-year-old right-arm quick who can bowl fast and hit the deck hard. He impressed in India A matches, especially in Northampton where he took four wickets and had a solid partnership with Tanush Kotian.
England lead the series 2-1 after their exciting 22-run win at Lord’s, which went down to the final session.