Duleep Trophy: Akash Deep shines with four-wicket haul
Fast bowler Akash Deep has made a strong case for his inclusion in the Indian squad for the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh. This follows his outstanding performance in the ongoing Duleep Trophy 2024 opener, where he claimed four wickets for India A against India B. He finished with 4/60 across 27 overs as India B were folded for 321 at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru
Akash Deep's impressive wicket haul in Duleep Trophy
Akash showcased his skills by dismissing big names like Rishabh Pant and Nitish Kumar Reddy on successive deliveries. Despite initial success on Day 1, he had to wait for his next two scalps as Musheer Khan (181) and Navdeep Saini (56) added 205 runs for the eighth wicket. On Day 2, he sent back Saini and Yash Dayal in quick succession to wrap up the first innings.
A successful Team India debut
Earlier this year, Akash received his maiden international cap in the 4th Test against England in Ranchi. He straightaway made a mark after England elected to bat first. In his second over, Akash knocked over Zak Crawley, but a front-foot no-ball quashed the celebrations. However, Akash gained redemption by dismissing Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, and Crawley. He finished the innings with figures worth 3/83.
Here are his FC numbers
2019 marked Akash's debut in First-Class, List A, and T20 cricket. In red-ball cricket, he has raced to 111 wickets from 32 games at a 23-plus average. The tally includes four five-wicket hauls, with 6/60 being his best figures. Akash also owns a fifty with the bat. He owns 42 and 49 wickets in List A and T20 cricket.
Uncertainty over key pacers opens doors for Akash Deep
The Indian team is considering young pacers for the upcoming series against Bangladesh due to Jasprit Bumrah's extended break and Mohammed Shami's ongoing injury recovery. Mohammed Siraj's withdrawal from the Duleep Trophy due to illness add to the concerns. This situation presents an ideal opportunity for Akash to secure his place in India's Test squad, following his successful debut against England earlier this year.
