India vs England: Akash Deep enjoyed a dream debut spell, making a remarkable entrance as the Indian pacer dismantled the England top order, claiming three wickets within the initial hour of the Ranchi Test.
On Day 1 of the fourth Test at the JSCA International Stadium Complex, debutant Akash Deep showcased a dream bowling spell for India against England. Within the first hour of play, Akash Deep’s fiery bowling left the visitors struggling at 58 for 3. The conditions in Ranchi, characterized by cooler and overcast weather compared to previous venues, played to Akash Deep’s strengths, enabling him to effectively exploit seam movement. Despite a minor setback with a no-ball dismissal of Zak Crawley, Akash Deep garnered praise for his remarkable performance on the field.
Despite a brief setback with a no-ball, Akash Deep regained his composure and showcased his skill with a well-executed outswinger that dismissed Ben Duckett, earning him his maiden Test wicket. The Bengal pacer’s display of confidence in reviewing an LBW appeal against Ollie Pope, a decision supported by captain Rohit Sharma, highlighted his maturity and understanding of the game.
From agony to delight, a dream debut for Akash Deep! ?✨
— JioCinema (@JioCinema) February 23, 2024
#TeamIndia are in command in the 4th #INDvENG Test?#IDFCFirstBankTestSeries #BazBowled #JioCinemaSports pic.twitter.com/n6SRx0fxrR
Akash Deep’s dominance persisted as he executed a decisive nip backer that took Ollie Pope by surprise, resulting in his dismissal. This showcased the young pacer’s ability to outsmart the opposition. Despite surviving an earlier no-ball, Zak Crawley couldn’t evade Akash Deep’s prowess in their second encounter, eventually getting dismissed as the bowler displayed relentless pace and accuracy.
Akash Deep made his Test debut in the fourth match between India and England at the JSCA Stadium in Ranchi. India’s head coach, Rahul Dravid, presented Akash with his Test cap just before the toss on Friday. The right-arm pacer was included in the playing XI as a replacement for Jasprit Bumrah, who was rested for this match due to workload management. With this debut, Akash Deep became India’s 313th Test cricketer.
Ahead of his debut, Akash Deep engaged in an emotional moment, seeking blessings from his mother by touching her feet and sharing a hug. The rest of his family expressed gratitude to the almighty in this heartfelt moment. Akash Deep then posed for pictures with his family.
His journey to Test cricket was marked by impressive performances in first-class cricket, particularly his 12-wicket haul across three matches against England Lions, which earned him a spot in the Indian squad. Akash Deep’s selection came at a crucial juncture when India needed a potent replacement for the rested pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah. At 27 years old, Akash Deep was viewed as the ideal candidate to fill this void, thanks to his commendable pace, ability to bowl good lines, and effectiveness in domestic cricket.