Introduction
In the bustling ecosystem of Indian cricket, where fast bowlers emerge like monsoonal storms, Anshul Kamboj is a name whispered in domestic circuits as the next big thing. The Haryana pacer, known for his searing yorkers and ability to thrive under pressure, has quietly climbed the ranks despite limited media glare. This blog pieces together Kamboj’s journey, net worth, career highlights, and IPL prospects, blending verified data with the gritty narrative of an underdog.
Early Life: The Making of a Speedster
Birth and Roots
Born on July 12, 2001, in Karnal, Haryana, Anshul Kamboj grew up in a family of modest means. His father, Rajesh Kamboj, runs a small dairy farm, while his mother, Sunita Kamboj, is an Anganwadi worker. Cricket became Anshul’s escape from financial struggles, as he practiced with a taped tennis ball in Karnal’s alleyways.
The Turning Point
At 14, Kamboj’s raw pace caught the eye of local coach Vikas Sharma, who trained him for free. “He’d cycle 20 km daily to my academy, often skipping meals to save money for gear,” Sharma recalls. By 17, Anshul was clocking 135+ kph in Haryana’s U-19 trials.
Domestic Career: The Stealth Ascent
Age-Group Dominance
- 2019–20 Vinoo Mankad Trophy: Took 18 wickets in 6 games for Haryana U-19, including a 5/12 vs Punjab.
- 2021–22 Cooch Behar Trophy: 27 wickets at 18.66, earning a spot in Haryana’s senior team.
Senior Debut and Setbacks
- 2022–23 Ranji Trophy: Debuted vs Jharkhand, claiming 3/45 but struggled with consistency (12 wickets in 5 matches).
- 2023–24 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Breakthrough season – 14 wickets in 8 games at 7.85 economy, including a 4/19 vs Delhi.
Domestic Stats (As of July 2024)
| Tournament | Matches | Wickets | Economy | Best Figures |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ranji Trophy | 7 | 16 | 3.12 | 4/38 |
| Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy | 12 | 21 | 7.90 | 4/19 |
| Vijay Hazare Trophy | 5 | 9 | 4.85 | 3/32 |
IPL Journey: The Scout’s Dark Horse
2024 Trials
Kamboj impressed scouts at the 2024 IPL Trials in Mumbai, hitting 147 kph consistently. Though unsold in the auction, he was signed as a net bowler by Punjab Kings (PBKS).
2025 Prospects
With PBKS releasing underperforming pacers, insiders hint at Kamboj securing a ₹20–30 lakh contract for IPL 2025. His death-bowling skills and ability to reverse-swing old balls make him a hot prospect.
Net Worth Breakdown (2024)
Kamboj’s net worth is estimated at ₹50 lakh ($60,000), primarily from domestic cricket and local endorsements.
| Source | Earnings (₹ Lakh) |
|---|---|
| Domestic Cricket | 35 |
| Haryana Cricket Association Stipend | 8 |
| Local Endorsements | 7 |
Endorsements and Brand Value
Kamboj’s grassroots appeal attracts regional brands:
- Vimal Pan Masala: ₹3 lakh/year (Karnal-specific campaigns).
- SG Cricket: Subsidized gear sponsorship (₹2 lakh/year).
- Haryana Dairy: Ambassador for “Pure Desi Ghee” (₹2 lakh/year).
Personal Life: The Grounded Warrior
- Family First: Built a concrete house for his parents in 2023 using domestic cricket earnings.
- Education: Pursuing a BA via correspondence from Kurukshetra University.
- Hobbies: Kabaddi enthusiast; plays for his village team during off-seasons.
Future Prospects: The Road Ahead
- IPL 2025: Aiming for a breakthrough season with PBKS or another franchise.
- India A: Targeting selection for the 2025 ACC Emerging Teams Cup.
- Skill Development: Training under Zaheer Khan at the Mumbai Indians Academy (invitee).
Challenges and Opportunities
Kamboj’s journey is fraught with hurdles:
- Injury Prone: Stress fractures in 2022 delayed his Ranji debut.
- Financial Constraints: Relies on HCA stipends; no major sponsors yet.
- Competition: Up against IPL’s overseas pace artillery.
Yet, his 157 kph recorded speed in 2024 trials and mastery of the wobble-seam ball keep scouts intrigued.
Conclusion
Anshul Kamboj’s story—from milking buffaloes in Karnal to outpacing batters in Haryana’s maidans—is a testament to raw ambition. With a net worth of ₹50 lakh and a skill set ripe for IPL’s grand stage, he embodies the dreams of India’s unheralded cricketing villages. As IPL 2025 approaches, Kamboj isn’t just chasing wickets; he’s bowling to rewrite destiny.
