Anshul Kamboj Creates History With Brilliant 2/22 Spell Against New Zealand In 1st ODI

Sakshi Sharma

Anshul Kamboj Creates History With Brilliant 2/22 Spell (Source: AFP)

Anshul Kamboj delivered a memorable bowling performance in the first ODI between India and New Zealand at Eden Park, Auckland, on November 4, 2026. The Indian pacer finished his 10-over spell with impressive figures of 2/22, including two maiden overs, at an outstanding economy rate of 2.20.

Kamboj played an important role in keeping New Zealand's batting under pressure with his disciplined line and length. He consistently bowled on a hard length and made it difficult for the Kiwi batters to score freely.

The right-arm pacer also registered his first international ODI wickets after going wicketless on his debut against the West Indies earlier in October.

Anshul Kamboj Claims Maiden ODI Wicket With Mitchell Santner’s Dismissal

Anshul Kamboj dismissed New Zealand all-rounder Mitchell Santner. The left-handed batter scored just four runs from 16 balls before dragging Kamboj’s delivery back onto his stumps.

The Indian pacer then picked up his second wicket by dismissing Nathan Smith. Anshul Kamboj forced Smith to play at a delivery outside the off stump, resulting in an edge towards second slip. Virat Kohli completed a brilliant one-handed diving catch to send the batter back to the pavilion.

With his impressive performance, Anshul Kamboj also created historic records.

Anshul Kamboj Makes India ODI Debut, Virat Kohli Hands Him The Cap

Anshul Kamboj Records Historic Economy Rate Against New Zealand

Kamboj's conceded only 22 runs in his full 10-over quota and became part of an elite list of Indian bowlers who have delivered highly economical spells against New Zealand in their home conditions.

Most Economical Bowling Figures for India vs New Zealand in New Zealand in ODIs (Min.10 Overs):

3/13 - Javagal Srinath, Auckland, 2003 (1.30)
2/16 - Ashish Nehra, Auckland, 2002 (1.60)
2/18 - Kapil Dev, Auckland, 1994 (1.80)
2/22 - Anshul Kamboj, Auckland, 2026 (2.20), Today*
4/23 - Javagal Srinath, Auckland, 2002 (2.30)

Anshul Kamboj's economy of 2.20 is the joint-best by an Indian pacer in an ODI innings since 2005 while bowling all 10 overs. It is also the best by an Indian seamer in the last nine years, since Jasprit Bumrah's 1/22 (10) against Zimbabwe in 2016.