Akash Deep had made his India Test debut v England in Ranchi.
Akash Deep made an impressive Test debut against England in Ranchi in February, when Rahul Dravid awarded him his cap. His excellent performance, particularly during the first spell, drew attention.
The 27-year-old bowler has had a promising start to the new domestic season in the Duleep Trophy. He scored 9-116 while playing for India A,althought his side lost versus India B.
Because of his steady efforts in red-ball cricket, he has been named to the 16-man team for the opening Test against Bangladesh in Chennai.
Looking ahead to the forthcoming series against Bangladesh, he revealed his strategy. He stated that he would not try anything new, but rather focus on his strength and the best spots to bowl.
Akash described Bumrah by saying, he has been uniquely crafted by God. However, Akash admitted that studying from Bumrah is difficult owing to his particular technique.
"Every bowler in the world has their unique action and technique, and each one is great in their way. I follow Rabada a bit, and Bumrah is a legend. It's hard to follow him. 'Bumrah bhai ko bhagwan ne alag hi bana k bheja hai (He has been uniquely crafted by God), and I can't learn everything from him. I also observe Siraj and learn from him. I pick up small things from various bowlers, but I don't follow just one bowler too much," said Akash Deep as per IANS.
Akash has stated that he feels a strong duty to serve his team while Mohammad Shami is out due to injury. Shami has been unavailable since his great performance at the 2023 ODI World Cup.
"This is a huge responsibility that I have been given, allowing me to serve my team. Shami bhai is currently injured... I see this as a responsibility and am trying my best to live up to the faith that the selectors and BCCI management have placed in me,” he added.
Akash Deep also praised India captain Rohit Sharma and highlighted his ability to keep the dressing room at ease for the team members.
"I played my first match under Rohit bhaiya in Ranchi. I was thinking about how difficult it would be to play my debut match for the country. There's something special about him—when I played that first game, it didn't even feel like I was playing for India. He manages things so well, talks in a way that puts you at ease and gives simple plans that make cricket easier. Playing under him is a matter of luck for any cricketer," he said.
Furthermore, Akash Deep also shared that he was excited to play under head coach Gautam Gambhir. "The way he fights for the game of cricket makes me feel like I'll really enjoy playing under his leadership as well," he said.
He also mentioned his admiration for legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar, citing both his skill and personality as sources of inspiration.
"Sachin sir's down-to-earth nature has inspired me since childhood. Besides his batting, I followed his personality, which kept me motivated," he added.
(IANS inputs)