Anshul Kamboj scripts history in Duleep Trophy with eight-wicket haul
What's the story
Haryana-born pacer, Anshul Kamboj, has made history in the Duleep Trophy's round-two fixture.
Representing India C against India B at the Anantapur Cricket Ground 'B' venue, Kamboj claimed an impressive eight-wicket haul.
This feat was achieved over two days, with five wickets taken on day three and an additional three wickets secured in the morning session on Sunday.
He finished with 8/69 in 27.5 overs.
Match progression
Kamboj's performance leads India C to set high target
Kamboj's stellar performance meant India B were bundled out for 332 while responding to Team C's first innings total of 525/10.
The pacer opened his account by trapping half-centurion N Jagadeesan (70). His brilliance also meant prominent names like Musheer Khan, Sarfaraz Khan, and Rinku Singh bagged low scores.
The innings concluded with Kamboj dismissing No. 11 Mukesh Kumar, leaving skipper and opener Abhimanyu Easwaran unbeaten on 157.
Historic achievement
Kamboj joins elite group of pacers in Duleep Trophy history
With this achievement, Kamboj has become only the third pacer to record an eight-wicket haul in the history of the Duleep Trophy.
He now stands alongside Debasis Mohanty (10/46) and Ashoke Dinda (8/123) in this exclusive club.
Prior to this match, Kamboj had not taken more than three wickets in an innings in his previous 14 First-Class matches, making his recent performance a significant career milestone.
Career journey
Kamboj's journey from Karnal to national cricket
Kamboj, a native of Karnal in Haryana, is not just a pacer but also an all-rounder.
He first gained recognition during the domestic 50-overs tournament when he helped Haryana secure their maiden Vijay Hazare Trophy title.
Kamboj was one of the top wicket-takers in that tournament, claiming 17 scalps from 10 matches.
Meanwhile, the 23-year-old has raced to 35 FC wickets, averaging 35-plus.
IPL stint
Kamboj's IPL debut and future prospects
Before his IPL debut with Mumbai Indians in 2024, Kamboj had played in only nine T20 matches.
Despite a challenging start against Sunrisers Hyderabad, where his delivery was ruled a no-ball after dismissing Travis Head, he managed to play three games for MI and take two wickets.
His unique high-arm release and straight seam position have caught the attention of experts and analysts during his brief stint in the franchise tournament.