Pathan explained why Akash deserves consideration for the second Test against England.
Former cricketer Irfan Pathan has advocated for Akash Deep’s inclusion in the Indian XI if Jasprit Bumrah is rested for the second Test against England at Edgbaston.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Pathan highlighted how the Bengal-based pacer can provide a Mohammad Shami-like threat with the ball. He also explained why Akash deserves consideration for the upcoming Test.
India suffered a five-wicket defeat in the series opener at Headingley despite batters scoring five centuries. The visitors failed to defend a 371-run target, conceding a 1-0 lead in the five-Test rubber.
India’s bowling attack, barring Bumrah, looked pedestrian. The likes of Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna and Shardul Thakur didn't provide enough support to the No.1-ranked Test bowler. Ravindra Jadeja also failed to make a mark as a lone spinner.
There are question marks over Bumrah’s participation for the second Test, with several reports claiming that he’s likely to be rested by the team management to manage his workload.
Bumrah bowled 43.4 overs across the two innings in Leeds. While the ace pacer claimed a five-wicket haul in the first innings, he went wicketless in the second essay as English batters played him with caution.
If Bumrah is unavailable, Irfan reckons Akash would be a worthy replacement. “If Bumrah is not there, then who should come into the side in his place? Akash Deep, from what's been seen in the nets, seems to be getting into his rhythm. I feel that he is the Shami mould type of bowler,” Pathan commented.
“His straight seam deliveries can trouble the England batters, especially when it comes to late movement. If you are going aggressive, this could be a problem. We will come to Arshdeep, but I think if Bumrah is not playing, then it should be Akash Deep who should come in his place,” he added.
Meanwhile, India’s assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate expressed confidence in the team’s bowling unit, stating that they are not totally dependent on Bumrah and can compete strongly even in his absence.
"It is, but we also feel we can go 1-1 or keep the score at 1-0 without Jasprit. Again, that's putting the eggs in the back end of the series. We're going to need him at some stage as well. You've got to decide when you're going to play your strongest suit,” ten Doeschate said in the pre-match presser.
As far as Bumrah’s participation in the second Test is concerned, a final decision will be taken on match day.