Akash Deep Gears Up for Bangladesh Test Series, Reflects on Recovery and Advice from Mohammed Shami

India’s rising cricket star Akash Deep is set to make a much-anticipated return to the national team for the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh, starting September 19 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. After a challenging year filled with injuries and illness, the right-arm pacer is eager to showcase his skills and earn his maiden Test cap.

Akash Deep first broke into the limelight during the 2022 Asian Games when he replaced the injured Shivam Mavi in India’s squad. His promising performances earned him another call-up during the South Africa ODI series, where he was brought in as a replacement for the injured Deepak Chahar. However, despite being part of the squad, Akash did not get the chance to feature in any of the matches.

His breakthrough opportunity came in February 2024, when he was included in India’s Test squad for the home series against England. Though he didn’t play in the matches, the call-up signaled his growing importance in India’s pace-bowling department, especially given his impressive performances for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League.

After a brief but productive stint in the Bengal T20 League in June, Akash Deep’s momentum was stalled by a bout of dengue fever, which kept him sidelined for three weeks. Reflecting on the tough period, Akash spoke about his struggle to regain fitness after the illness. 

“I haven’t played any competitive cricket since the Bengal T20 League in June. I was on complete bed rest for those three weeks. When I came back to bowl, I realised the body takes time to get back into rhythm,” he told ESPNcricinfo.

Akash’s health setback could have disrupted his preparation for the upcoming home season, but the 26-year-old pacer is determined to make up for lost time. The bowling all-rounder aims to perform well in the Duleep Trophy, starting September 5 in Bengaluru and Anantapur, as he looks to regain form ahead of the Test series against Bangladesh.

In a candid conversation, Akash revealed how a discussion with India’s star fast bowler Mohammed Shami helped him focus on his fitness and regain his confidence. The conversation took place in Kolkata and served as a turning point in Akash’s career.

“A conversation with India fast bowler Mohammed Shami in Kolkata was a turning point. He spoke to me about his issues with fitness, what he did to improve, how he came back from injuries. That chat gave me perspective,” Akash shared. 

Inspired by Shami’s resilience and work ethic, Akash adopted a rigorous fitness regimen that helped him improve his stamina and pace. “I used to bowl mid-130s, but after following his advice, I worked on my fitness, and I realised slowly I could bowl long spells without being tired,” Akash added.

Shami’s advice not only pushed Akash to work on his physical fitness but also gave him the mental strength to overcome setbacks and focus on his long-term goals.

Looking ahead, Akash Deep is optimistic about his chances in the two-match Test series against Bangladesh. He hopes to secure his long-awaited Test debut after being part of the squad for the England series earlier this year. 

“I am aware that I could be in contention for India’s home Test series against Bangladesh, and I want to see how their batters are faring,” Akash said, adding that he is working hard to be fully prepared for the challenges ahead.

Despite his limited game time since June, the pacer is confident that his hard work and recovery process will pay off during India’s home season. Akash’s pace and control, combined with his ability to bowl long spells, could be a crucial asset for India’s bowling attack, especially in the absence of some senior players.

With the Test series against Bangladesh fast approaching, Akash Deep’s focus is on making the most of the opportunity in front of him. After months of battling illness and injuries, the 26-year-old is determined to prove himself on the biggest stage. 

As he readies himself for the upcoming matches, Akash hopes to continue his upward trajectory and cement his place in India’s Test squad. Fans and cricket pundits alike will be watching closely as the young pacer takes the next step in his promising career.