Indian fast bowler Akash Deep’s maiden tour of England has quickly become the stuff of cricketing legend, with the 29-year-old pacer not only clinching a remarkable 10-wicket haul in Birmingham but also making a crucial batting contribution at The Oval. In a candid reflection on his journey, Akash credits the unwavering support of head coach Gautam Gambhir and the calm leadership of new Test captain Shubman Gill for making what he once imagined as a daunting overseas assignment feel surprisingly smooth.
Speaking to PTI, Akash Deep shared, "You aren’t aware of your capabilities. See, I was telling you, you can do it. You have to play with this dedication always." These were the words Gambhir offered after Akash’s gritty 66-run knock at The Oval, a performance that helped lay the foundation for India’s imposing total in the fifth and final Test. That innings, coming from a nightwatchman, was more than just a fluke; it was the result of belief—both from within and instilled by those around him. "Gautam bhai is a very passionate coach. He always motivates us. He believes in me more than I believe in myself, both in my batting and bowling," Akash added, echoing the sentiment that has resonated throughout the Indian dressing room in recent months.
Akash’s England adventure was not without its challenges, but the pacer found the conditions less alien than expected. Far from the traditional English wickets famed for their swing and seam, most of the matches demanded adjustments more akin to sub-continental pitches. "In four out of the five Tests that we played in England, it didn’t resemble the typical English wickets that we have traditionally heard of or seen over the years," Akash noted. "If you see, the ball wasn’t seaming or swinging a lot at times and we had to hit the India length, fuller one. We had to make that adjustment which, if you have played enough cricket, you should be able to do it."
That adaptability was on full display in Birmingham, where Akash’s 10-wicket match haul powered India to a famous win. His ability to switch up lengths and focus on execution—skills honed through rigorous net routines and visualization techniques—proved decisive. "Practice sessions are very important for me in terms of execution. I am always trying to think about the main opposition batter that I am supposed to bowl," he revealed. Even during nets, Akash would visualize plans for England’s top order, saying, "I might be bowling to Yashasvi in nets but my plan was for Duckett or Root."
Akash’s Test journey has been a whirlwind. Making his debut under Rohit Sharma’s captaincy in February 2024, he has since played 10 Tests and claimed 28 wickets—a tally that reflects both opportunity and consistency. The transition to Shubman Gill’s leadership has been seamless, thanks to their shared experience in domestic cricket. "He is a very good captain. It’s not like he is a new captain. He has already been an IPL captain for a couple of years, which is a big platform. That experience does count," Akash said. "With Shubman as captain, I didn’t feel like I was playing for the first time. He’s very supportive. When a captain supports you and understands things well, especially when you are down, it makes a big difference."
Gill’s own performance during the England series silenced any critics who doubted his readiness for the Test captaincy. Amassing a record-breaking 754 runs, including four centuries, Gill led from the front and kept his cool in high-pressure moments. The 2-2 series draw under his stewardship not only retained the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy for India but also marked a new chapter in Indian cricket’s leadership evolution.
The England tour, however, was as much a test of Akash’s mental resilience as it was of his cricketing skills. Just before departing, his sister Akhanda Jyoti was diagnosed with cancer—a blow that left the family reeling. Akash found solace and motivation in the knowledge that his on-field heroics could lift his sister’s spirits. "She was very happy. The treatment is a bit tough for all the patients. There are complications but with the series on for nearly two months and a family member playing, it kept her interested," he said. "When you are happy, even if there are multiple complications in the body for some time, you tend to forget."
Despite missing some matches in Australia and England due to niggles, Akash is pragmatic about the physical demands of fast bowling. "The on-field impact injuries can’t be avoided. If you have to dive to save a boundary, you have to do it. You can’t think that I will hurt my shoulder and all. Yes, if it is fitness and training related injuries, the aim is to minimise them as much as possible," he explained, underscoring his commitment to preparation and longevity.
His performances have not gone unnoticed by selectors, but Akash remains focused on staying ready rather than lobbying for opportunities. "We can’t just go and talk to selectors. They are experienced people and when they feel that they need me for any format, they would summon. My job is to perform and be ready for call ups," he said. His ambition to represent India across all formats is clear, but his approach is refreshingly grounded.
Off the field, Akash’s journey from tennis-ball cricket in Durgapur to international stardom has been marked by humility and perspective. After returning from England, he treated himself to his dream luxury SUV—a moment of personal celebration, but not a distraction from his true passion. "The heart of my life is cricket. The fancy car is temporary happiness, but cricket is my focus," Akash reflected. "Yes, good things are a part of life but the heart of my life is cricket, and that’s what is my focus."
As India’s cricket landscape continues to evolve, stories like Akash Deep’s offer a glimpse into the blend of talent, perseverance, and support systems that drive success. With a coach who believes in him, a captain who trusts his abilities, and a family cheering him on through thick and thin, Akash Deep stands poised for even greater heights. For now, he’s content to keep his head down, improve every day, and let his performances do the talking—on pitches both familiar and foreign.
