Ansul Kamboj Dominates With 8 Wickets As Duleep Trophy Clash Ends In Draw

The Duleep Trophy 2024 saw a stunning display of fast bowling prowess on Day 4, as Anshul Kamboj produced his best-ever bowling figures in first-class cricket. Kamboj’s exceptional spell of 8/69 was pivotal in dismissing India B for 332 in their first innings, setting the stage for a commanding lead by India C.

Duleep Trophy 2024: Day 4

The fourth day of the Duleep Trophy was a showcase of Anshul Kamboj’s skill and determination. With India B resuming their innings at 309/7, all eyes were on the bowlers to see if they could push for a substantial total or salvage the game. Kamboj, the Haryana pacer, took charge and dismantled India B’s lower order with ruthless efficiency.

The day began with Abhimanyu Easwaran and Rahul Chahar at the crease. Easwaran, who had shown impressive form throughout the match, remained unbeaten on 143. Chahar, however, was unable to add to his overnight score and was dismissed by Kamboj for 18. Navdeep Saini followed soon after, bowled out for a duck by Kamboj. This relentless attack by Kamboj ensured that India B’s innings ended at 332.

Kamboj’s impact on day 4

Kamboj’s performance was nothing short of phenomenal. After the early dismissal of Chahar, he continued to wreak havoc on the India B lineup. His ability to break partnerships and clean up the tailenders was crucial in restricting India B to 332. His spell was a testament to his growing prowess and promise as a fast bowler.

Best figures in Duleep Trophy history:

1. 10-46 Debasis Mohanty (East Zone v South Zone, Agartala 2000/01)
2. 9-55 Baloo Gupte (West Zone v South Zone, Kolkata 1962/63)
3. 8-64 Saurabh Kumar (Central Zone v East Zone, Alur 2023)
4. 8-65 Arshad Ayub (South Zone v North Zone, Kanpur 1987/88)
5. 8-69 Anshul Kamboj (India C v India B, Anantapur 2024/25)

Day 3 performance

The third day of the match had already set the stage for Kamboj’s brilliance. He claimed five wickets in the innings, including key players like Narayan Jagadeesan and Musheer Khan. His spell marked the first five-wicket haul of his first-class career, showcasing his potential and skill. Abhimanyu Easwaran’s resolute knock of 157 was the highlight for India B, but Kamboj’s performance was the standout moment.

In the second innings, India C began with a strong position. However, they faced an early setback with Sai Sudharsan’s dismissal. Despite this, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Rajat Patidar formed a crucial partnership of 96 runs, pushing India C past the 100-run mark. The innings saw further wickets fall, with Rahul Chahar and Musheer Khan playing significant roles in breaking the partnerships.

As the match neared its end, India C had built a substantial lead of 321 runs. Baba Indrajith and Abhishek Porel’s short but effective innings helped consolidate the position. With time running out, both captains agreed to a draw, ensuring the match concluded with India C in a dominant position.

Standings and points table

The result of the match had a significant impact on the points table. India C’s commanding performance propelled them to the top of the table with nine points from two matches. Meanwhile, India B remained in second place with seven points, reflecting a competitive but challenging campaign.

---