From Haryana to Headingley: How Anshul Kamboj’s Journey is Shaping India’s Future Pace Attack

Anshul Kamboj, a young pacer from Haryana, is turning heads with his rapid rise in Indian cricket. His inclusion in the India A squad for the England tour isn’t just another name on the team sheet—it’s the result of years of quiet, disciplined grind. What makes his story stand out is the blend of influences behind it: the pace wisdom of Glenn McGrath and the mental calm of MS Dhoni.

Grounded Beginnings in Haryana

Hailing from Karnal, Anshul’s journey started like many small-town cricketers—early mornings, basic facilities, and a dream that refused to fade. His breakthrough came when he joined the MRF Pace Foundation, where legendary Australian pacer Glenn McGrath mentored him on the nuances of fast bowling.

His raw pace and sharp line-and-length quickly caught the attention of coaches at the domestic level, leading to steady performances in the Ranji Trophy and other formats.

Learning from Legends

What shaped Anshul’s growth wasn’t just training sessions or gym hours—it was the cricketing mindset he picked up along the way. He often mentions how watching MS Dhoni helped him remain calm under pressure, while McGrath’s guidance fine-tuned his control and consistency.

This mix of technical excellence and mental composure is becoming evident in his performances, especially during high-pressure moments on the field.

A Role Model for Tier 2 Aspirants

For young cricketers in Tier 2 cities like Patiala, Indore, and Ranchi, Anshul’s rise feels relatable and achievable. He didn’t come from a sports school or a metro city academy. His development came through state-level opportunities, consistent hard work, and support from platforms that identify rural talent.

This makes his selection to the India A side all the more meaningful—not just for him, but for the thousands of aspiring fast bowlers across the country.

Ready for Bigger Challenges

With India always on the lookout for promising fast bowlers, Anshul’s selection comes at a time when the team is investing in future-ready pace talent. The England tour will be a testing ground, and his performance there could determine how soon he knocks on the senior team’s doors.

Selectors and coaches are closely watching how well he adapts to overseas conditions and whether he can handle long-format challenges.

Why His Story Matters

Anshul Kamboj isn’t just another pace bowler in the making. He’s a reminder of how India’s cricketing pipeline is expanding beyond big cities. With the right mentorship and mental strength, even small-town players are matching global standards.

His journey reflects the changing face of Indian cricket—more inclusive, more grounded, and more driven by pure talent than ever before.