Akash Deep's Inspiring Journey: A Cricketer's Dedication to His Cancer-Stricken Sister

A Story of Resilience and Family Bonds

Akash Deep, a cricketer from Bengal with roots in Bihar, has faced numerous challenges throughout his life. After the tragic loss of his father and brother within a month, he now supports his elder sister, Akahnd Jyoti Singh, who is bravely battling cancer. His recent five-wicket haul is a testament to his determination and strength, reflecting the struggles of the youngest sibling in the family.

Following a victorious Test match at Edgbaston, Akash dedicated his five-wicket achievement to his sister, revealing her ongoing fight against cancer, although she is currently stable. A media house visited their home to interview Jyoti, who shared insights into Akash's close-knit family ties.

Akash, the youngest of five siblings, lost one brother in 2015. Jyoti, despite being in the third stage of her cancer treatment, expressed immense pride in her brother's accomplishments. She stated,

"It is a matter of pride for India - he has taken 10 wickets. Before the England tour, we went to meet him at the airport. I told him, 'I’m absolutely fine, don’t worry about me, just do well for the country.' I am in the third stage (of cancer), and the doctor has said the treatment will go on for six more months, after which we’ll see."

She praised Akash for his ability to perform under pressure while managing family responsibilities.

"I had no idea Akash would say something like that. Maybe we weren’t ready to talk about it publicly, but the way he became emotional and said it for me - dedicating it to me - it’s a big deal. It shows how much he loves our family and me. Given the situation at home, and still performing like that and taking wickets there, it’s a huge thing. I’m the one he is closest to."

Support During Tough Times

While representing the Gujarat Titans during the IPL, Akash made it a point to visit Jyoti regularly as she underwent treatment. She recounted,

"When the IPL was going on and he was playing for the Lucknow team, I was admitted to the hospital for cancer treatment. Even then, he would come meet me either before or after the matches. After the match ended, we spoke twice over video call, and again at 5 a.m. in the morning. Akash told me, ‘Don’t worry, the whole country is with us.’ He said, ‘I couldn’t hold it in anymore. I had been trying to, but yesterday I just couldn’t stop myself.’"

Jyoti further emphasized Akash's supportive nature, stating,

"Such a brother is rare. He helps us a lot and doesn’t do anything without talking to us. He shares everything with the family. Since our father and eldest brother are no longer with us, he is the one now managing the whole household."

She even promised to prepare his favorite Dahi Vada and green vegetables when he returns home.