Akash Deep, the Bengal fast bowler, became the 313th cricketer to play Test cricketer for India. He was handed a debut in the ongoing fourth Test against England being played in Ranchi. Akash received his debut India cap from head coach Rahul Dravid.
Akash Deep then went on to have a dream debut, as he knocked over three England wickets in the first session giving India the edge. He picked the wickets of Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, and Zak Crawley.
Akash, 27, replaced Jasprit Bumrah in the India XI and had his mother watching from the sidelines as he received his India cap from former India skipper and now coach Rahul Dravid.
The BCCI shared the moment on social media in which Dravid is seen giving Akash Deep some pep talk and asking him to enjoy the moment. Dravid also spoke about how Akash has lost his father and brother but kept his belief and passion for cricket alive.
“Akash, your journey started from a place named Baddi, which is roughly 200 km away from here (Ranchi). You have faced a lot of hardships in this journey. You have worked hard. You have seen a lot of ups and downs.
IND v ENG 2024: WATCH- India debutant Akash Deep rattles England's top order with three wickets
You, on your own, moved from Baddi to Delhi to play cricket. You were inspired by the 2007 T20 World Cup. You stayed in Delhi and put in the effort. Then, you moved to Kolkata from Delhi. You played domestic cricket and put in inspiring performances. Your journey has taken you to Ranchi, which is 200kms from your home and you are going to get your India cap here (today),” Dravid said.
“It is a special feeling for you as you as your mother is here along with some of your family members. It is unfortunate that your father and elder brother are no more. But we are sure that they are blessing you from wherever they are. Our entire team is wishing you. Please enjoy this moment and this match. You have worked hard to reach here and this has been your dream. We are happy that we are here with you to fulfill this dream. Enjoy these five days and your entire career.
With great joy, I present to you India Cap No. 313,” Dravid added handing over the cap to Akash.
Here is the video:
