Cricket

'One should not judge them based on one performance' - Ajinkya Rahane backs Anshul Kamboj and Auqib Nabi

October 4, 2026

Veteran batter Ajinkya Rahane has publicly defended recent team selections, urging fans and analysts not to rush judgment on two emerging bowlers following difficult outings during the third fixture of the bilateral series. During the match hosted in New Chandigarh on October 3, 2026, the national team failed to successfully protect a target of 352 runs, exposing newly inducted seamers to tough bowling conditions against the West Indies batting lineup.

Anshul Kamboj entered the playing eleven for his initial one-day international appearance, registering figures of 0-82 across nine overs, while fellow right-arm medium pacer Auqib Nabi watched from the sidelines after previously conceding 84 runs without taking a wicket in 8.5 overs during the second encounter.

Rahane argued that revolving personnel too rapidly undermines confidence and places undue psychological pressure on developing athletes. Pointing out that Nabi received zero further opportunities following a high-scoring debut on a flat surface in the preceding game, the former batsman emphasized that consistent backing is essential for nurturing international talent.

He noted the uncertainty now facing Kamboj regarding his future prospects in the squad, concluding that players require sustained chances over multiple fixtures rather than immediate exclusion after a single challenging performance.