Akash Deep Reflects on Performance Amid Uncertainty for Third Test at Lord's
Akash Deep's Impressive Display in Second Test
Birmingham [UK], July 5: Akash Deep, who led India's pace attack with finesse for the team captained by Shubman Gill, is uncertain about his inclusion in the final XI for the upcoming third Test at Lord's, famously known as the 'Home of Cricket'.
Akash secured a spot in India's lineup for the ongoing second Test at Edgbaston after the renowned Jasprit Bumrah was rested to manage his workload. In Bumrah's absence, Akash made a compelling case for his selection by taking four vital wickets in the first innings.
He created significant pressure with the new ball, partnering with Mohammed Siraj on a pitch that offered little assistance. Akash dismissed series opener and Player of the Match Ben Duckett for a duck on his fifth ball and followed up by sending Ollie Pope back for a golden duck on the very next delivery.
On the third day, he broke through Harry Brook's (158) defense, disrupting the record 303-run partnership he had formed with Jamie Smith (184*). He also delivered an away-swinger to dismiss Chris Woakes for 5 runs off 17 balls, concluding with impressive figures of 4/88. Despite his standout performance and Bumrah's confirmed return for the match at Lord's, Akash's chances of playing remain uncertain.
“We have only two days left for this Test match, and it’s crucial for us to secure a win. Therefore, I’m not focusing on the third match right now. My energy is directed towards these two days. After that, I will think about it. The team will decide my participation. I have no idea if I’ll play. The decision is made by the team, and we find out a day before the game,” Akash shared with reporters after the day's play.
Since his debut in Ranchi against England in February of last year, Akash has had limited opportunities. Prior to his fiery spells at Edgbaston, he played two Tests in a five-match series against Australia, twice in three home matches against New Zealand, and both games against Bangladesh.
Despite the inconsistency in his appearances, Akash remains undeterred and ready to seize any opportunity that arises. He stated, “I don’t think about it that way. I believe that when the team needs me, I must be prepared. I have to stay ready. I don’t dwell on continuity. I prepare for the moments I get, and whenever I have the chance, I aim to perform with that mindset.”
While Akash impressed against the English batters, Siraj was the star of the show with a remarkable six-wicket haul. Their partnership forced England to collapse to 407, giving India a 180-run lead. The 28-year-old discussed the on-field communication he had with Siraj and the strategies they employed to achieve success.
“On the field, we communicated about what was happening during my bowling and Siraj's. We discussed maintaining pressure and bowling in partnership,” he explained. “Whether we took wickets or not, we aimed to bowl in specific areas and restrict runs. This was our strategy, making it easier for me as runs were not flowing from either end, allowing me to bowl freely,” he added.
India concluded the third day positively, despite Yashasvi Jaiswal's quick 28-run innings ending prematurely. KL Rahul capitalized on the batting-friendly conditions in Birmingham, leading India to 64/1 in 13 overs and extending their lead to 244 runs.