Akash Deep, a 27-year-old pacer from West Bengal, has made a strong impression early in his Test career and is now in contention for a spot in India’s squad for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) later this year. Akash debuted during India’s series against England and is currently part of the playing XI for the ongoing Test against Bangladesh in Kanpur. In this Test, he has already claimed two wickets, troubling Bangladesh with his ability to hit the deck, generate swing with bounce, and make good use of seam movement.
One of his key breakthroughs came in the ninth over when he lured Zakir Hasan into edging the ball, which flew to gully where Yashasvi Jaiswal took a stunning catch. Akash continued his impressive performance by removing Shadman Islam. His role in this series has been crucial, especially since he has been filling in for the injured Mohammed Shami. Despite his strong start, it could be challenging for Akash to retain his spot in the XI due to competition within the squad.
Former India bowling coach Paras Mhambrey has been full of praise for Akash’s start, recognizing his experience in domestic cricket and his ability to rely on seam movement—skills that are crucial in Australian conditions, where India will need Akash in the upcoming BGT series. Mhambrey emphasized the importance of having bowlers like Akash, especially given that the BGT is a five-match series, which may necessitate resting senior pacers like Jasprit Bumrah and Shami for a match or two.
Mhambrey highlighted that Akash’s ability to derive seam movement would be beneficial in Australia, especially with Kookaburra balls that tend to offer movement for the first 30 overs before conditions become flat. He also touched upon the potential for strategic rotation of bowlers like Bumrah and Shami, meaning Akash could play a vital role during the series.
Regarding a left-arm pace option, Mhambrey suggested that it’s too early for Arshdeep Singh to be included in the Test setup. Instead, he backed Yash Dayal, citing his ability to hit the deck hard and extract seam movement, qualities essential for success in Australia. Mhambrey believes that Dayal would be a better fit for the Australian conditions than Arshdeep, whose development with the red ball may still need more time.
In summary, Akash Deep has shown great promise in his early Test career, and with key bowlers like Bumrah and Shami potentially being rotated in the BGT, he could have a significant role to play in India’s Test squad later this year.
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