Former India head coach
Shastri highlighted the 25-year-old's suitability for the challenging conditions expected in New Zealand. According to the former coach, the Chennai Super Kings pacer possesses the necessary temperament to act as a reliable workhorse, capable of maintaining pressure from one end while allowing the primary strike bowlers to operate effectively.
A Tactical Choice for New Zealand Conditions
Speaking on the Sony Sports Network, Shastri emphasized the importance of having a bowler who can sustain long spells, particularly in the windy environments often encountered in New Zealand. He noted that Kamboj’s domestic experience with Haryana has prepared him well for such demands, describing him as an accurate bowler who consistently hits the bat and can move the ball in both directions to trouble opposing batters.
Beyond his primary role as a seamer, Shastri pointed to Kamboj’s utility as a lower-order batter, which adds depth to the team composition. The former coach also praised the bowler's recent contributions in the middle overs, noting that his ability to take wickets in phases where teams typically rely on spin has been a significant factor in India's recent successes.
Form and Development
Kamboj’s inclusion in the Test squad follows a period of growth after a challenging introduction to the longest format. Following a difficult Test debut against England, where he claimed one wicket for 89 runs, the pacer has demonstrated a marked improvement during the current tour of New Zealand. His recent form in the ODI format has been particularly notable, including a Player of the Match performance in the first ODI in Auckland on November 4, where he returned figures of 2 for 22. He followed this with another disciplined display in the second ODI in Wellington on November 7, taking 2 for 25.
Shastri views the inclusion of the young pacer as a strategic move to bolster India's fast-bowling depth for overseas assignments. By selecting players suited to specific conditions—a 'horses for courses' approach—Shastri believes India is better equipped for upcoming challenges in countries like New Zealand, South Africa, and England.
