Ravichandran Ashwin has supported Shubman Gill’s decision to give debutant Anshul Kamboj the new ball in the fourth Test against England in Manchester. Despite raising some eyebrows, Ashwin called it a “debatable” but understandable choice.

Kamboj had a difficult start, with Ben Duckett hitting him for three boundaries in his first over. However, the Haryana pacer soon found his rhythm. Ashwin explained that Gill’s decision was based on Kamboj’s potential with the new ball, while Siraj could be more effective with an older one.

“Shubman Gill’s decision to hand the new ball to Anshul Kamboj is certainly debatable, but I can understand why he made that choice. Anshul has a strong wrist position and can swing the ball both ways. On the other hand, Siraj is much more effective with the old ball,” Ashwin said.

Ashwin praised Kamboj for bowling well after a few ordinary overs and urged viewers to keep expectations in check, given it was his debut. He also hoped Kamboj would add more wickets to his tally.

“Expecting Anshul Kamboj to bowl alongside Jassi on debut against Bazball is a big task. His first spell was underwhelming, but he made a strong comeback.

Kamboj, who impressed for India A against England Lions, was a surprise inclusion in the Playing XI ahead of Prasidh Krishna. On his debut, he claimed his first international wicket by dismissing Ben Duckett for 94 during his third spell.

India will rely on Shubman Gill to rally the bowling attack and create pressure on what could be a key day in the match.