Anshul Kamboj, the 23-year-old pace sensation from Karnal, Haryana, credits his brief stint with the Mumbai Indians (MI) during the IPL 2024 season for significantly shaping his bowling skills and overall approach to the game. The five-time IPL champions have left a lasting impact on Kamboj, who recently etched his name into the history books by becoming only the third bowler to claim all ten wickets in a Ranji Trophy innings.
His remarkable figures of 10/72 against Kerala at the Chaudhary Bansi Lal Stadium in Lahli place him in the elite company of Premangsu Chatterjee and Pradeep Sunderam. Kamboj’s journey from open fields to the dressing room of cricket legends is a testament to his dedication and hunger for growth. Reflecting on his time with MI, he shared how the franchise’s environment fostered learning at every step. “There were many legends in the setup.
Talking to them and working with them was a great learning experience. I learned how to prepare for challenges, bowl in different situations, and constantly improve. They taught me the importance of maintaining a positive attitude and getting better each day,” Anshul Kamboj said in an interview with Cricbuzz.
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One of the standout moments of his stint was observing Jasprit Bumrah up close. “I focused on understanding his mindset in various situations, how he handled pressure, and his composure. These lessons were invaluable for me as a bowler,” he added.
Anshul Kamboj also spoke about the influence of MI captain Rohit Sharma, whose guidance offered new perspectives on the game. “Playing alongside the Indian skipper was an unforgettable experience. His insights, especially during my first IPL season, were incredibly helpful,” he said.
Kamboj’s talent has shone beyond the IPL. His 8/69 for India C in the Duleep Trophy 2024 against India B, where he dismissed key players like Sarfaraz Khan and Rinku Singh, showcased his ability to excel under pressure. Similarly, his match-winning 3/33 for India Emerging in the T20 Asia Cup against Pakistan Shaheens further solidified his reputation.
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Securing his maiden IPL contract with MI for INR 20 lakh, Kamboj played three matches in IPL 2024, taking two wickets. His stellar domestic performances now make him one of the most anticipated uncapped players ahead of the IPL 2025 auction on November 24 and 25.