Mohammed Siraj has heaped praise on his bowling partner Akash Deep after their impressive performance in the second Test against England at Edgbaston. Siraj, who himself took six wickets in the first innings, described Akash Deep as someone "hungry" for opportunities and likened him to a "horse" ready to run.
India's bowling attack came under scrutiny after failing to defend a target in the previous Test. With the series on the line, the decision to rest Jasprit Bumrah for workload management in the second Test raised eyebrows, especially considering India's poor record at Edgbaston. Akash Deep was included in the playing XI, marking his first Test appearance in England.
Despite initial doubts, Akash Deep quickly silenced his critics with a spirited performance. He played a crucial role, claiming four wickets and helping India secure a significant first-innings lead. Akash Deep dismissed key England batsmen, including Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope, both for ducks. He later returned to dismiss Harry Brook, who was forming a formidable partnership with Jamie Smith.
Siraj acknowledged Akash Deep's role in his own success, stating that he aimed to create pressure from his end to support Akash. He even said he would have given Akash the ball to take the remaining wickets if he had the same number of wickets. "He was waiting for the opportunity. He has shown how hungry he is. To be honest, I enjoyed bowling with him. My aim was not to give runs from my end. I wanted to control myself and put pressure on the opposition," Siraj said. Akash Deep also spoke about the importance of their partnership, explaining how they constantly communicated about the conditions and their strategies.
Akash Deep's journey has not been without its challenges. He has had limited opportunities since his Test debut against England in February 2024. When questioned about not getting regular chances, the 28-year-old said, "I don't want to think that I don't get regular chances in the team. Whenever I get chance I try to do my best. I prepare as if I am going to play every match. That mindset helps".
Despite his impressive performance in Birmingham, Akash Deep is uncertain about his place in the team for the next Test at Lord's, especially with Jasprit Bumrah expected to return. "We have only two days for this Test match, and this match is very important for us to win. So, I am not thinking about the third match at all. I believe that I have to put my energy in these two days. After that, I will consider it. The team will decide whether I will play or not. No, not at all. I don't know if I'll play. The team makes this decision. We get to know one day before the game," Akash said.
Akash Deep has credited Gautam Gambhir and Morne Morkel for boosting his confidence. He revealed that Gambhir's motivational words and belief in his talent have significantly impacted his performance. "He always says positive things. He tells me, 'You might not even know the kind of skill you possess, the talent in your hands.' That kind of motivation is very important for a cricketer," Akash said.
The combined efforts of Mohammed Siraj and Akash Deep helped India bowl out England for 407, securing a crucial first-innings lead in the second Test at Edgbaston. At the end of day 3, India led by 244 runs.
