Cricket

Akash Deep's Fiery In-swinger Stuns Tom Latham in Mumbai TestOn Day 2 of the third and final Test in Mumbai, Indian pacer Akash Deep unleashed a breathtaking in-swinger that left New Zealand skipper Tom Latham in awe. The incident occurred in the first over of the Kiwis' second innings, with Latham looking to drive the ball. However, Deep's delivery nipped back sharply from outside off, finding its way through the bat-pad gap and crashing into the stumps.Latham, who had survived a close lbw appeal on the previous ball, was left stunned by the sheer pace and precision of Deep's delivery. The dismissal was a testament to Deep's exceptional skill, as he breached the opener's defense with ease.Deep's ability to extract such movement off the pitch highlighted his immense talent. The delivery was a perfect example of fast bowling at its finest, leaving both fans and analysts impressed.Earlier in the day, spinner Ajaz Patel had taken five wickets as New Zealand bowled out India for 263. Overnight batsman Shubman Gill made a valiant 90 before the Kiwis ended the home side's reply to their 235 in the second session at Wankhede Stadium.With India leading by 28 runs, the match is poised for an exciting finish. Deep's fiery in-swinger has given the hosts a psychological advantage, and they will be looking to capitalize on it in the remaining days of the Test.

India's star pacer, Jasprit Bumrah, has expressed his confidence in the potential of his compatriot Akash Deep after their impressive victory in the second Test against Bangladesh in Kanpur. Despite losing significant playing time due to rain and a wet outfield, India's players displayed unwavering determination and secured a 7-wicket win on a sunny day in Kanpur.Throughout the series, India's experienced bowlers have consistently delivered when needed. However, it was the young Akash Deep who stole the spotlight in Kanpur, showcasing his exceptional swing bowling with the SG ball. Bumrah, who witnessed Akash's impressive performance firsthand, revealed that they have had numerous "interesting conversations" where Akash sought advice before captivating spectators with his mesmerizing spells."He (Akash Deep) comes up to me quite a lot before a spell and asks me 'what is happening and what should I do'. We have had a lot of interesting conversations, and the energy he brings on the ball, he gives his best on the field, and when he's bowling, he has got a lot of heart, and that is a good sign for us going forward. Hopefully, he goes from strength to strength," Bumrah said after India's victory.In the two Tests, Akash, who consistently hit the deck, swung the ball effortlessly and ended the series with five wickets. The Green Park surface underwent significant changes throughout the five days of play, with the weather constantly dictating the flow of the game. Once the rain subsided and the sun shone brightly over Kanpur, it became a challenging surface for the pacers to extract benefits from.However, for Bumrah, when the pitch turned against his natural style of play, it was a challenge that he relished taking on. "I like that challenge when you go against your nature and conditions are not favorable. The wicket is not favorable. How do you get answers? All of these battles I really like. We have played a lot of cricket in India. You understand the nature of the wicket, and the SG ball sometimes reverses as well, but sometimes, because of the humidity, you are not able to keep the ball dry, so you find solutions and discuss it with other players as well," Bumrah added."It was a test for our fitness as well, as you see how hot the weather is, bowling every day and trying to create an impact, a really special win. You use your experience, but it is easier said than done because you have played a lot of cricket and played on different surfaces. You find solutions. This wicket was completely different to what we got in Chennai, so we quickly communicated with the others and tried to find the best option," he noted.In the end, as India pushed their limits and redefined the way a Test is supposed to be played, Bumrah stood at the top as the joint-leading wicket-taker in the series with 11 wickets. As he continues to make the ball obey his will, Bumrah has earned the title of magician for himself. However, the experienced pacer is not focused on such adjectives. He is just delighted with the way India performed to subtly complete the series sweep over Bangladesh."It feels really good. I don't think about all those adjectives (being called a magician). It is really good to get this win; we had lost a couple of days," Bumrah said.Following the conclusion of the series, India will engage in a three-match T20I series against Bangladesh and then host New Zealand for three Tests this month.

The Indian cricket team showcased an exceptional batting performance on Day 4 of the second Test against Bangladesh in Kanpur, breaking five records and establishing a commanding lead. Led by captain Rohit Sharma, the Indian batters dominated the proceedings, with several notable contributions.Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, and Yashasvi Jaiswal all played quickfire knocks, setting the tone for India's aggressive approach. However, it was pacer Akash Deep who stole the spotlight with his audacious sixes off Shakib Al Hasan's bowling. Using the bat gifted to him by Virat Kohli, Deep smashed two consecutive sixes, sending the Indian dressing room into a frenzy.Star off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin then took control of the Bangladesh innings, claiming two quick wickets to reduce the visitors to 26 for two. Ashwin's two-wicket haul (2/14) gave India complete command of the rain-hit Test match.Earlier, aggressive fifties by Yashasvi Jaiswal (71 off 52 balls) and KL Rahul (68 off 43 balls) had placed India in a strong position. The duo helped India declare their first innings at 285 for nine, securing a lead of 52 runs. Virat Kohli also contributed with a fluent 47 off 35 balls.For Bangladesh, veteran left-arm spinner Shakib Al Hasan picked up four wickets (4/78), while off-spinner Mehidy Hasan Miraz claimed four wickets (4/41) to restrict India's free-flowing batters.

With the highly anticipated five-Test tour of Australia looming, the Indian team management faces the daunting task of finalizing its pace attack amidst uncertainty surrounding the fitness of veteran pacer Mohammed Shami.Akash Deep, despite his limited Test experience, has emerged as a beacon of assurance for the team. His impressive debut against England earlier this year showcased his ability to provide seam movement and control. Former bowling coach Paras Mhambrey believes Akash possesses the attributes necessary to succeed in Australia's challenging conditions.The selectors face the challenge of selecting five pacers for the tour, with workload management playing a crucial role. Even if Shami regains fitness, the team will require an additional pacer alongside Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Akash.The team management is keen on including a left-arm option, with Yash Dayal currently in contention. Khaleel Ahmed and Arshdeep Singh are also potential candidates. Dayal appears to be the frontrunner, as his ability to create rough outside the off-stump could prove valuable in conjunction with Ravichandran Ashwin and Kuldeep Yadav.Prasidh Krishna, with his height and seam-extracting capabilities, is another potential inclusion. The team management has invested heavily in his development, and his experience with the Kookaburra ball could be an asset.The success of India's pace attack in the previous Australia tour was largely attributed to the rigorous preparation provided by Rahul Dravid and Paras Mhambrey at the NCA. While the current crop of pacers may not have the same level of experience, they have been exposed to Kookaburra balls in India to familiarize themselves with the conditions.The upcoming three Tests against New Zealand and Shami's potential return to domestic cricket next month will provide further clarity on the team's pace resources. The selectors must carefully consider the workload management of their key bowlers and make strategic selections to ensure a balanced and effective attack for the all-important tour of Australia.

India's bowlers made early inroads into Bangladesh's batting lineup on the rain-hit opening day of the second Test in Dhaka. Pacer Akash Deep impressed with his probing opening spell, while Ravichandran Ashwin removed the dangerous Bangladesh skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto.Despite overcast conditions and a delayed start due to overnight rain, India's bowlers maintained a consistent line and length. Akash Deep, bowling round the wicket to the left-handers, consistently hit the good length areas and got the ball to either shape away or come in with the angle.Bangladesh's openers, Zakir Hasan and Shadman Islam, played cautiously against the initial bounce and seam movement. However, Akash Deep broke the partnership by inducing an edge from Hasan to Yashasvi Jaiswal. He soon sent back Shadman on a ball that came in and caught him in front of the wicket.Shanto, who has been in good rhythm, began with two shots to the fence but was trapped in front by Ashwin in the third over of the second session. The Bangladesh skipper reviewed the decision but to no avail.Seasoned Mominul Haque grew in confidence as he spent more time at the crease. He hit two boundaries off Akash in a single over and later hit an exquisite drive through mid-off. He raised Bangladesh's hundred with another four.Only nine overs were bowled in the second session when bad light stopped play even as the flood lights were on, forcing the players off the field. Light drizzle followed and soon it was pouring.With the weather forecast predicting further rain, it remains to be seen how much play will be possible on the remaining days of the Test match.

Rohit Sharma's Disbelief as DRS Overturns Umpire's Decision in India vs. Bangladesh TestOn the opening day of the second Test between India and Bangladesh in Kanpur, Indian captain Rohit Sharma's reaction to a successful Decision Review System (DRS) call went viral on the internet.After pacer Akash Deep's initial LBW appeal against Shadman Islam was denied by the on-field umpire, Deep urged Sharma to review the decision. Despite initial hesitation, Sharma agreed, and the DRS confirmed the dismissal, much to his surprise.The delivery, angled in from around the wicket, straightened and hit Islam's pads. Deep's confident appeal was initially met with denial, but the DRS showed the ball hitting the leg stump, leading to Islam's departure for 24.Sharma's reaction, a mix of disbelief and amusement, captured the attention of viewers. The Indian players erupted in celebration, congratulating Deep for his persistence and the successful DRS call.The incident highlighted the importance of DRS in modern cricket, allowing umpires to rectify potential errors and ensure fair play. It also showcased the growing confidence of Indian bowlers in using technology to their advantage.Earlier in the day, Sharma won the toss and elected to bowl first on a Green Park Stadium track that offered bounce and carry. India lead the two-match series 1-0 after a comprehensive victory in Chennai.

Akash Deep, the young Bengal pacer, has made a quiet but significant impact on the Indian Test team since his debut in 2023. In his first match against England in Ranchi, he claimed three wickets in his opening spell, including the prized scalp of Zak Crawley. In the recent Test against Bangladesh in Chennai, he once again showcased his prowess by dismissing Zakir Hasan and Mominul Haque in consecutive deliveries, with the ball jagging back into the left-handers and breaching their defenses.Deep's rise to the national team is a testament to his hard work and dedication. He credits the rigors of domestic cricket for preparing him for the challenges of international cricket. "The domestic structure is so good that when you reach here, you already know many things," he said. "So, you get an idea of your bowling and what you must do. I don't find anything new here."Deep's bowling style is similar to that of Mohammed Shami, with the ability to move the ball both ways while attacking the stumps. This has led to comparisons between the two bowlers, and Deep is seen as a potential successor to Shami in the Indian pace attack."When you are playing in place of bowlers who have contributed to the country, then, along with being proud, I feel that I have to do something for my country," Deep said.Ahead of a long winter in which India will play Tests over the next three months, including five in Australia, Deep could be a key weapon in India's pace arsenal. With uncertainty over Shami's comeback after an Achilles tendon surgery, Deep is ready to step up and take over from his state teammate.Deep's journey so far has been marked by humility and a focus on the present. "I have worked on my strengths and what I can add to my bowling. I have thought about a few things. When I play here, it is simple. I don't put extra pressure on myself that I have to go to Australia or some other big series. I stay in the present and think about this match."

India's fast-rising pace sensation, Akash Deep, has hailed the country's robust domestic cricket system as a crucial factor in his seamless transition to international cricket. Deep, who has already made a mark in his two Test appearances, credits the BCCI's well-structured domestic setup for preparing him for the rigors of international competition."The domestic cricket structure in India is incredibly strong," Deep said. "By the time you reach the international level, you've already played a significant amount of high-quality cricket. You have a clear understanding of your bowling strengths and areas for improvement."Deep's journey to the Indian team is a testament to the effectiveness of the domestic pathway. After an impressive Ranji Trophy campaign in 2019, where he claimed 35 wickets at an average of 18.02, he was selected for the East Zone in the Duleep Trophy and Deodhar Trophy. His consistent performances earned him a call-up to India A, and eventually, a Test debut against England Lions.The support and guidance of senior players in the Indian team have also played a significant role in Deep's transition. "I'm fortunate to play under Rohit Sharma," Deep said. "He simplifies things and creates a comfortable environment for newcomers. He made me feel like I was playing domestic cricket, not international cricket."Deep's success at the international level is a reflection of the hard work and dedication he has put in throughout his career. He has played over 100 first-class, List A, and T20 matches, honing his skills and developing a deep understanding of the game."I've played a lot of cricket in the last two years," Deep said. "It's important to understand yourself as a cricketer. When you're selected for a new team, there shouldn't be any confusion. I've worked on my strengths and identified areas where I can improve."Deep's focus on the present and his ability to adapt to different conditions have been key to his success. "My job is to put the ball in good areas, regardless of the wicket," he said. "I need to find ways to pick up wickets, even if the conditions aren't favorable for fast bowlers."As India prepares for the final Test against Bangladesh in Kanpur, Deep is excited to play on a ground that holds special significance for him. "I'm from Banaras, which is not far from here," Deep said. "I had heard of Green Park when I was young, and I thought it was called that because the whole ground was green. It feels nice to be here, at the place I had heard of as a kid."

Akash Deep, the rising star of Indian cricket, recently received a heartwarming gesture from none other than Virat Kohli. During the opening Test against Bangladesh, Kohli surprised Deep with a brand-new bat, leaving the young pacer overwhelmed with gratitude.Deep, who made his Test debut against England earlier this year, has impressed with his performances so far. In his second Test, he picked up two wickets against Bangladesh, showcasing his potential as a reliable fast bowler.In an exclusive interview with TimesofIndia.com, Deep shared his experience of receiving the bat from Kohli. "I was in my hotel room when I heard a knock on the door. To my surprise, it was Virat Kohli standing outside," Deep recalled. "He walked in, carrying a brand-new bat and asked, 'Do you need a bat?'"Overwhelmed by the unexpected gesture, Deep eagerly nodded. "I immediately took out a pen, requested an autograph on the bat, and gave Virat a hug," he said. "I will never play with that bat. It's a huge gift from Virat bhaiya, and I will keep it as a souvenir."Deep also spoke about his rapport with captain Rohit Sharma, who he described as a "different kind of captain." "He is the best captain I have played under," Deep said. "He is just a cool and calm person. He keeps things so simple and easy for every player."Deep's impressive performances have earned him a place in the squad as a replacement for the experienced Mohammed Shami. "Responsibility—that's what I feel in the absence of a veteran bowler," Deep said. "Fulfilling that role and performing is a big challenge, and I feel that responsibility."The young pacer has also had the opportunity to share nets with Jasprit Bumrah, one of the world's leading fast bowlers. "I regularly talk to him and observe his bowling," Deep said. "I take a lot of tips from him and have learned a lot."Deep's focus on reading batsmen and adapting to different conditions has been key to his success. "Every batsman plays in a different zone," he said. "As bowlers, we need to keep track of that, analyze it, and bowl accordingly."With his impressive performances and the support of senior players like Kohli and Sharma, Akash Deep is poised to become a vital part of India's bowling attack in the years to come.