By India’s fast bowling stocks have taken a hit ahead of the crucial Manchester Test against England, with both Akash Deep and Arshdeep Singh facing injury setbacks. In response, Haryana pacer Anshul Kamboj has been called up as a backup option to join the squad in England.
Akash Deep, the breakout star from India’s historic Edgbaston win, appeared to injure his hip during the third Test at Lord’s. After delivering his 30th over, the right-arm pacer was seen holding his hip and walking uncomfortably. He exited the field briefly, prompting Shubman Gill to rely on Mohammed Siraj to share bowling duties with Jasprit Bumrah. Though Akash later returned to the field, he didn’t bowl again and only came out to bat late in the day, facing 11 deliveries as a nightwatchman.
Arshdeep Singh, meanwhile, sustained a finger injury during a practice session in Beckenham. The left-arm seamer had been building rhythm in the nets, but the injury has sidelined him from immediate contention for the next Test.
India Turn to Kamboj Ahead of Manchester Test
To cover for the injured duo, India have drafted in Anshul Kamboj, a promising right-arm seamer from Haryana. Kamboj impressed for India A earlier this summer against the England Lions, where he bowled long spells with control and discipline. In three innings where he bowled over 10 overs, he picked up five wickets and maintained an economy just above 3 runs per over. Notably, he also chipped in with an unbeaten 51 with the bat, underlining his all-round potential.
India are already managing Jasprit Bumrah’s workload, making Akash’s potential unavailability for the Manchester Test a significant concern. Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate hinted that the team would ideally retain Akash if he can recover in time, but the final call remains uncertain.
With the five-match series currently at 2–1 in England’s favor, India are under pressure to bounce back. The Manchester Test becomes a must-win if the visitors hope to keep the series alive.
