On Sunday, July 20, 2025, fast bowler Anshul Kamboj joined the Indian men’s cricket team in Manchester ahead of their Test match against England. His first day with the squad included an unusual experience—taking part in a joint session with Manchester United’s footballers at Old Trafford.Kamboj was present as the Indian cricket team and Manchester United players mixed cricket and football activities during the football club’s post-match training. Anshul has quietly built his case over the years. With 79 wickets in 24 first-class games, and a recent five-wicket haul in India A’s red-ball tour, the pacer has shown discipline and consistency.The event also saw Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir and United manager Ruben Amorim exchanging jerseys. Team captains Bruno Fernandes and Shubman Gill shared a relaxed moment together. Indian spinner Kuldeep Yadav spoke at length with Amorim.Also Read: When cricket met football: Team India bonds with Manchester United stars in ManchesterThe Indian team shared photographs of the event on their social media with the caption “United in Manchester.” The meeting gave both squads time to relax, talk, and learn about each other’s sports.Kamboj’s inclusion in the India squad comes as fast bowler Arshdeep Singh recovers from an injury. The joint session at Old Trafford gave him a different kind of start to his first tour with the national team, showing how sport can bring players together, even across disciplines. The fourth Test against England at Manchester begins on Wednesday, July 23.
