In his remarkable debut performance during the fourth Test against England, newcomer fast bowler Akash Deep credited India’s star pacer for invaluable advice that shaped his success on the field. With guidance from Bumrah Bhai, Akash strategically adjusted the length of his deliveries, a move that proved pivotal in his dream debut. The 27-year-old wasted no time making an impact, wreaking havoc on England’s top order in the opening session of Day 1, setting India on a strong footing early in the match.
Despite the pressure of his debut, Akash remained unfazed, his composed mindset steering him clear of nervousness. Although denied his maiden wicket early on due to a front foot no-ball, Akash’s precision in line and length troubled England’s batting stalwarts, dismissing Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, and Ollie Pope.
Akash said: “Bumrah Bhai advised me to drag the length back slightly (in international cricket), that’s exactly what I did,”
“I wasn’t nervous, had spoken with my coaches, so I wasn’t tense ahead of the game. I don’t know how it happened, but I used to take every game as my last game and tried my best,”
Ending the day with figures of 3/70, Akash’s stellar performance was overshadowed by Joe Root’s resilient century, which helped England recover from the early setback. Root’s masterful innings, coupled with Ollie Robinson’s late flourish, saw England post a total of 302/7 by day’s end, keeping the contest finely poised.
Akash further added: “”I felt bad (on the no-ball), I was just hoping that the team doesn’t lose because of that (since Crawley was batting well),”
Root’s composed return to form after missing earlier matches of the tour showcased his class, while Robinson’s aggressive stroke play in the final overs added an electrifying touch to the day’s proceedings, leaving spectators captivated. Despite England’s late resurgence, Akash’s impactful debut and India’s strong start set the stage for an enthralling battle as the Test match unfolds.
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