Gautam Gambhir calls up MS Dhoni’s trusted pacer for England Tests amid injury crisis

Fast bowler Anshul Kamboj has been added to the Indian Test squad for the final two matches of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series as a cover. The decision was made by Gautam Gambhir after Arshdeep Singh injured his left hand just before the fourth Test, set to commence on July 23 at Old Trafford in Manchester.

Anshul Kamboj earned his place in the senior Test squad after impressive performances in the unofficial two-match series between India A and the England Lions. The right-arm fast bowler Anshul Kamboj took five wickets over the two games. Anshul Kamboj also contributed with the bat, scoring a half-century in the second match in England.

Arshdeep Singh Ruled Out of Fourth Test vs England Due to Injury

Arshdeep Singh is unlikely to be available for the fourth Test after suffering a cut on his bowling hand during a nets session, which required stitches. The injury occurred when he attempted to stop a shot from Sai Sudharsan during his follow-through.

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Arshdeep, who has yet to make his Test debut, has represented India in eight ODIs and 63 T20Is, and has featured in 21 First-Class matches.

Meanwhile, Akash Deep’s participation is also uncertain as he is struggling with a groin issue. He did not bowl in the team’s recent practice session before departing for Manchester.

Akash experienced discomfort during the third Test at Lord’s, leaving the field during England’s innings. He was seen holding his waist and was accompanied by the physio. The pacer had previously missed the Australia tour and IPL 2025 due to injuries.

Gautam Gambhir adds Anshul Kamboj to Indian Team Ahead of the Manchester Test

As per a report by The Indian Express, Anshul Kamboj has been added to the Indian team. The Haryana pacer has picked up 79 wickets in 24 First-Class matches. Anshul Kamboj was in outstanding form during the domestic season, including a 10-wicket haul in a single innings in a Ranji Trophy match against Kerala.

While the BCCI is yet to make an official announcement, India are expected to pick one among Anshul Kamboj, Shardul Thakur, or Prasidh Krishna to fill in if Jasprit Bumrah is rested for the upcoming Manchester Test.

“Arshdeep has a deep cut and has had stitches, he will take at least ten days to get completely fit. The selectors have decided to add Kamboj in the squad,” a BCCI source said.

India Aim to Win Fourth Test to Keep Series Alive

With the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series standing at 2-1, India must win the fourth Test in Manchester to keep the series alive. However, there is uncertainty over key players ahead of the crucial match at Old Trafford.

The Gautam Gambhir-led team management is yet to make a decision on whether to rest or play Jasprit Bumrah, given the workload concerns and the lack of impact from some of the other bowlers in the series so far.

Wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant suffered a blow to his left index finger while trying to collect a Bumrah delivery during England’s first innings at Lord’s. The injury forced Pant out of action behind the stumps for the remainder of the match, raising doubts about his fitness for the upcoming Test.

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