In the cricket world, fast bowlers have always been the heart of the game, and Akash Deep is making a strong case to be the next big name in Indian cricket. With a Test series between India and Bangladesh on the horizon, Team India is yet to be announced, and the selectors are closely watching the performances in the Duleep Trophy. One bowler who caught everyone’s eye on the first day of the tournament is Akash Deep, playing for India A.
Akash Deep, a right-arm pacer from Bengal, showcased his exceptional skills in the Duleep Trophy match between India A and India B at M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. The match’s first day saw a fierce battle between India A’s bowlers and India B’s batsmen, but it was Akash Deep’s performance that stood out. He led India A’s pace attack along with Avesh Khan and Khalil Ahmed, and together they wreaked havoc on India B’s batting lineup.
Tight Bowling and Big Wickets
Akash Deep’s bowling was a masterclass in maintaining a tight line and length. He troubled some of the best batsmen in Indian cricket, including Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant, and Abhimanyu Easwaran. Although he didn’t take wickets initially, Akash remained patient and consistent, eventually breaking through in a big way.
The moment that grabbed the most attention was when Akash dismissed star batsman Rishabh Pant. Pant, known for his aggressive batting, tried to hit a big shot but ended up playing the ball high in the air. India A’s captain, Shubman Gill, showed incredible athleticism by running back from mid-off and taking a stunning diving catch. This wicket was crucial, but what followed was even more impressive.
A Dream Delivery for Any Fast Bowler
On the very next ball, Akash bowled a delivery that would make any fast bowler proud. The new batsman, Nitish Kumar Reddy, faced a ball that landed on the middle stump line. Reddy tried to defend, but the ball seamed away from the pitch and clipped his off stump. It was a picture-perfect delivery, and Reddy had no chance to stop it. This wicket showcased Akash’s ability to bowl unplayable deliveries, making him a serious contender for a spot in Team India.
Akash finished the day with impressive figures, bowling 18 overs, six of which were maidens. He conceded only 26 runs and took two crucial wickets. His disciplined and impactful bowling performance has undoubtedly put him on the selectors’ radar.
Akash Deep’s Future in Team India
With the Bangladesh Test series approaching, the Indian selectors are facing a dilemma in choosing the right fast bowlers. Senior pacers like Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami are unlikely to play in this series, which opens the door for emerging talents like Akash Deep. Mohammed Siraj is expected to lead the pace attack, but the question remains: Who will partner with him?
Akash Deep’s recent performance has made a strong case for his inclusion in the squad. Earlier this year, Akash made his Test debut against England in Ranchi, where he took three wickets in a single innings. This experience, combined with his current form, makes him a promising candidate for Team India.
Akash’s ability to maintain pressure, bowl with pace, and deliver match-changing wickets sets him apart from many other fast bowlers. His consistent performances in domestic cricket and the Duleep Trophy show that he has the potential to succeed at the international level.
As the selectors finalize the squad for the Bangladesh series, Akash Deep’s name is likely to be in the mix. His recent performances have proven that he is ready for the big stage, and cricket fans across India will be eager to see if he gets another chance to don the Indian jersey.
