Former India captain Kapil Dev has come out in support of young pacer Anshul Kamboj, who is facing criticism for a forgettable Test debut in the ongoing fourth Test against England at Old Trafford.
Kamboj, who replaced Akash Deep in the playing XI, managed just one wicket while conceding 89 runs in his 18 overs. The 24-year-old began with a promising new-ball spell alongside Jasprit Bumrah, troubling the English batters early on but failing to make a breakthrough. His only success came on Day 3, when he dismissed Ben Duckett just as the opener was closing in on a century. He also created a chance on Day 4, but wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel put down a catch while standing upto the stumps.
While India’s bowling attack as a whole struggled against England’s mammoth 660-run total, Kamboj has drawn particular criticism for his lack of pace. However, the World Cup-winnkng skipper urged patience with the Haryana-based bowler.
“What do you expect from a debutant — to take 10 wickets? You need to assess his potential. If he’s good enough, he will bounce back,” Kapil Dev said on Saturday during the launch of the second-half schedule of the Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI). “Everyone feels nervous in their first game. The result may not be ideal, but I believe the ability is there, and that’s more important.”
If India get to bowl on Day 5, all eyes will be on Kamboj and how he responds in the second innings.
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