CSK’s Anshul Kamboj Set to Debut Against KKR in IPL 2025
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have made significant changes to their playing XI ahead of their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 clash against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Chepauk. According to a report by CricXtasy, MS Dhoni will return as captain for a third stint, stepping in after Ruturaj Gaikwad was ruled out with an elbow injury. The second big change was bringing in Anshul Kamboj in place of left-arm pacer Mukesh Choudhary.
Kamboj, a 24-year-old youngster from Haryana, has been in stunning form in domestic cricket. As reported by CricXtasy, he had finished the Ranji Trophy 2024-25 with 34 wickets from 12 innings and was also excellent in the white-ball tournaments. In the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Kamboj was Haryana’s highest wicket-taker with 17 wickets from 10 matches at an average of 22.05. He also claimed nine wickets from seven games at an economy of 6.73 in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024.
A Rare Domestic Record
Kamboj gained national focus for his Ranji Trophy exploits when he claimed 10-49 in a single innings against Kerala in a group-stage clash. As stated by CricXtasy, he became only the seventh Indian to do so in First-Class cricket. This impressive performance caught the attention of CSK, who picked him up for INR 3.4 crore during the November auction.
From Bench to Starting XI
Although Kamboj was expected to make his CSK debut in their season opener, against his former side Mumbai Indians, he has been warming the bench for the first five games. As noted by CricXtasy, CSK had preferred Matheesha Pathirana, experienced pacer Khaleel Ahmed, and even Maharashtra pacer Mukesh Choudhary. However, with his impressive form in domestic cricket, Kamboj is now set to make his debut against KKR.
A Tough Test Against KKR
Kamboj will be expected to bring his top performance against KKR, whose title defence is off to an unconvincing start. As reported by CricXtasy, they lost their first match to Royal Challengers Bengaluru but managed to beat Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad. Ajinkya Rahane’s side comes to Chepauk on the back of a four-run loss to Lucknow Super Giants.
IPL 2025: A New Chapter
Kamboj’s inclusion in the CSK playing XI is a significant move, especially with MS Dhoni returning as captain. As stated by CricXtasy, Kamboj had played three matches for Mumbai Indians in IPL 2024, and now he gets a chance to play for another top IPL side. The 24-year-old will look to make a strong impression and help CSK turn their season around.
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