'Hats off to Akash' - Anil Kumble praises Akash Deep for impressive debut against England

In a recent turn of events at the fourth Test in Ranchi against England, the spotlight shifted to the debutant, Akash Deep, as he delivered a splendid bowling performance. Former Indian cricketer Anil Kumble, known for his insightful viewpoints, commended the right-arm pacer for his exceptional display on the field.

The day began with England opting to bat first after winning the toss, following which Akash Deep seized the opportunity, wreaking havoc in the first session. His fiery spells dismissed the English top-order trio of Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, and Zac Crawley in quick succession. It was a remarkable debut for the young pacer, who unfortunately had a dismissal ruled out due to overstepping during the fourth over of the day.

What made Akash Deep's inclusion even more noteworthy was the decision of the team management to choose him over the tempting option of Axar Patel on a pitch that was dry and marred with platey cracks. Kumble commended the team management's decision, recognising their choice of Akash Deep over Axar Patel, as the pitch seemed favourable for the latter. 

"The team management certainly got it spot on. When Bumrah wasn't available for this game, there was an option to pick a fast bowler. India has always played two seamers in this series so far. Yes, we all thought the pitch was conducive, then maybe Axar Patel. But Akash has certainly bowled exceptionally well," Kumble said on JioCinema during the lunch break.

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Akash Deep created issues for the English batters by capitalizing on the early moisture and uneven bounce on the surface. Kumble observed that he consistently bowled at good lengths, outsmarting the batters and causing them difficulties.

"He bowled good lengths and most of the time, the length sort of got the better of the batter, that's where they got beaten," Kumble added

He bowled exceptionally well for a debutant: Kumble

Making his debut after 30 first-class games, Akash Deep's journey from domestic cricket to the national side has been praiseworthy. Despite the challenges posed by the English batting lineup, the debutant showcased composure and skill.

"On this surface, it is not easy for stroke play. That's something England batters went searching for. But hats off to Akash. I thought he bowled exceptionally well for a debutant," Kumble added.

As the day concluded with England at 302-7, with Joe Root unbeaten on 106, Akash Deep's impact was palpable. While the debutant couldn't make further inroads, the performance undoubtedly marked a promising beginning to his Test career.

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