New Delhi, Aug 13 (PTI) Akash Deep’s impressive beginnings in England have captured the spotlight, driven by the support of a coach with unwavering belief, a captain's encouragement during tough times, and familiar conditions that felt more like home. The Indian pacer emerged as a standout performer on his maiden English tour, recording a remarkable 10-wicket haul in one game and an invaluable 50 in another, both contributing to his team’s victories.
Reflecting on his impactful performance, Akash Deep recalls a pivotal conversation with head coach Gautam Gambhir after his outstanding 66 at the Oval.
"Tumko khud pata nahi tum kya kar sakte ho (You aren't aware of your capabilities). 'See, I was telling you, you can do it. You have to play with this dedication always'," the 29-year-old recounted in a PTI interview, emphasizing Gambhir's passionate coaching and confidence. Riding high on this backing, Akash lauded Gambhir’s mentorship, acknowledging his immense faith in his dual abilities with the bat and ball.
Settling into the Test environment under the leadership of captains like Rohit Sharma and now Shubman Gill was seamless for the Bengal speedster. Describing Shubman as a collected yet proactive leader, Akash Deep recounted the ease of playing under his captaincy due to their prior synergy during the Duleep Trophy.
"He is a very good captain. It's not like he is a new captain. He has already been an IPL captain for a couple of years, which is a big platform, " Akash noted.
The English conditions, often devoid of the swing typical to the region, felt akin to playing on sub-continental tracks, requiring strategic adjustments, as Akash explained. "In Australia, there was a lot of bounce and carry and I tried keeping it slightly back of length or at times pitch it up. However, in four out of the five Tests that we played in England, it didn't resemble the typical English wickets that we have traditionally heard of or seen over the years, " he said.
Discussing his methodical preparation, Akash revealed his focus during practice sessions on opponents such as Ben Duckett and Joe Root, irrespective of who he bowled against in the nets. Fitness remains a priority for Akash, especially after injuries curtailed his presence in both Australia and England tours.
Akash, who has taken 28 wickets in 10 Tests, remains open to opportunities across formats, emphasizing his readiness for selectors’ calls. "We can't just go and talk to selectors. They are experienced people and when they feel that they need me for any format, they would summon, " he stated.
Beyond cricket, personal tribulations shaped his journey as Akash’s sister battled cancer, with his performances providing her solace amid treatments.
Upon returning to India, Akash fulfilled a dream—purchasing a luxury SUV, symbolizing his journey from humble beginnings as a tennis ball cricketer. Despite appreciating life’s tangible rewards such as his new car, Akash remains grounded in his commitment to cricket. "The fancy car makes you happy, I won't deny, but that's very transient. It doesn't stay after some time, " he confessed.
Ultimately, more than any materialistic attainments, witnessing his family's happiness fuels Akash's drive, as he continues focusing on excelling in cricket and enjoying life’s unpredictable ebb and flow fully.
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