Akash Deep, a young cricketer hailing from Varanasi, dreamt of the iconic Green Park Stadium in Kanpur. As a child, he imagined its lush green expanse, fueled by the stories he heard in his junior school. Little did he know that his childhood dream would become a reality, with him donning the Indian colors and standing on the very field he once envisioned.
Fast forward to the present, and Akash finds himself living a dream he once cherished. He has etched his name into India’s Test cricket scene, displaying an impressive rise from a domestic talent to a vital force in the bowling attack. His two-wicket haul in the first innings of the first Test against Bangladesh in Chennai has once again brought him into the limelight, reminding everyone of his potential. Akash is soaking in every moment, embracing the opportunity to learn from the greats, like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. He relishes the chance to share the field with the formidable Jasprit Bumrah, constantly seeking to enhance his skills and contribute to the team’s success.
Akash’s journey has been a testament to hard work and unwavering self-belief. His commitment to his craft, coupled with a pragmatic approach, has seen him scale great heights. In 2019, he made his mark on the Bengal Under-23 team and debuted for the state in all three formats of the game. His impactful performances, including a six-wicket haul in his second First-Class game, propelled him to the forefront of Bengal’s bowling unit, playing a key role in their Ranji Trophy final appearance.
Akash’s ability to consistently pick up wickets in limited-overs cricket earned him a coveted Indian Premier League (IPL) contract with Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2021. His continued excellence culminated in a remarkable 41-wicket season in 2023, a performance that not only secured him a spot in the Duleep Trophy squad but also saw him earn a place on India A’s tour of South Africa. This whirlwind journey ultimately led him to his Test debut against England in Ranchi earlier this year, where he displayed his fiery pace and unwavering commitment.
Akash, a fighter who has overcome hurdles, remains grounded and focused. He understands the importance of staying present and contributing to the team’s goals. While he is aware of the challenges ahead, including the upcoming tour of Australia, he avoids dwelling on external pressure, instead choosing to focus on enhancing his skills and playing his role. He sees the responsibility of donning the Indian colors as a privilege and a chance to learn from the legends who have graced the national team before him. The dedication and commitment of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have left an indelible mark on Akash, inspiring him to push his limits and strive for excellence.
Despite his early success, Akash remains humble and eager to learn from the likes of Bumrah. He recognizes the value of constant improvement and seeks guidance from his captain, Rohit Sharma, who has been instrumental in helping him adapt to the demands of international cricket. Akash thrives under Rohit’s leadership, finding solace and guidance from the captain’s calm demeanor and supportive approach. The early days of his international career hold immense promise for Akash Deep, and with his unwavering spirit, his commitment to learning, and the support of his captain, he is poised to make his mark on the world stage, fulfilling his childhood dreams and continuing his inspiring journey in the world of Indian cricket.
