India are facing a big challenge ahead of the fourth Test against England. Two of their fast bowlers, Akash Deep and Arshdeep Singh, are injured. The match will start on July 23 at Old Trafford in Manchester.
India are trailing 2-1 in the five-match series. They must win this match to stay in the race for the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.
With the pace attack weakened, the selectors have added Haryana based fast bowler Anshul Kamboj to the squad. Kamboj is 24 years old and has not yet played international cricket. Now, he could make his debut in Manchester.
Arshdeep Singh injured his bowling hand during practicing in the nets in Beckenham. He had to tape his hand, and it’s unclear if he needed stitches.
Meanwhile, Akash Deep has a groin problem and did not bowl or bat in the recent training session. He only did light fitness drills under the watch of India’s trainer Adrian Le Roux.
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Akash was a key player in India’s win in the second Test. He took 10 wickets in that match. But in the third Test at Lord’s, he got only one wicket and looked out of rhythm. He also left the field on Day 4 for treatment.
India’s assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate said Arshdeep’s injury had already affected the team’s plans. Now, Akash’s fitness adds more worries.
Who is Anshul Kamboj?
Anshul Kamboj is a right-arm fast bowler from Haryana who also plays for Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League. He played for India A against England Lions before the Test series. In the second match in Northampton, he took four wickets and scored important runs. He shared a 149-run stand with Tanush Kotian in that game.
If Akash and Arshdeep are not fit, Kamboj might get his first Test cap. Jasprit Bumrah could also return after resting during the third Test. But his selection depends on the pitch, weather, and team balance. India now face a tough test, and Kamboj may soon get a big chance.
