Akash Deep drops colossal statement on replacing Mohammed Shami in Indian Test team

Akash Deep made the headlines with his latest performance during India’s 280-run win over Bangladesh in the first Test in Chennai. With Mohammed Shami sidelined for the Bangladesh Tests, Akash stepped into the big shoes and provided early breakthroughs to India in Chennai.

Well, it’s not just a matter of filling the big shoes; it's about embracing the immense responsibility that comes with replacing a player as iconic as Shami. Akash said that he totally understands the weight of the responsibility.

Akash Deep determined to repay India's trust with performances after replacing Mohammed Shami

Replacing a player who has delivered countless victories for India is not just a matter of pressure; it’s about the huge responsibility. Mohammed Shami's contributions with the ball made him the backbone of India’s pace attack for years, and Akash knows that the expectations are sky-high from him.

But rather than being overwhelmed, the young bowler is resolute, taking the challenge as an opportunity to repay the faith that the team management and senior players have shown in him.

Test cricket is the toughest format of the game, and standing in for someone like Shami demands more than just skill; as the pacer admitted, it demands a strategic mindset, focus, and the ability to handle pressure.

Well, Akash’s approach is straightforward about his game. He said that it is all about sticking to the basics, maintaining discipline, and relentlessly targeting the right areas.

It feels great to play in the place of such a great bowler: Akash Deep

Akash Deep further revealed that his focus isn’t just on replicating Mohammed Shami’s legacy but on making his own mark, using this platform to take wickets and prove his worth to the team.

Akash Deep was quoted as saying by the Times of India: “Responsibility—that's what I feel in the absence of a veteran bowler. He has done a lot for the country, and it feels great to play in the place of such a great bowler. Fulfilling that role and performing is a big challenge, and I feel that responsibility.

I want to repay the trust that the management, captain, seniors, and coaches have shown in me. I just want to follow the process, bowl in good areas, and take wickets for my team.”

Akash Deep highlights key lessons learned during his early Test career

Meanwhile, Akash Deep reflected on his journey as a Test cricketer, as he is playing in only his second series following his stint against England. The pacer has described the experience as invaluable.

Akash Deep emphasized how much he has learned during this time, particularly about the need for fast bowlers to adapt to different conditions and situations. His approach has been to stay true to his natural style of bowling without experimenting unnecessarily or making changes that could disrupt his rhythm.

Akash Deep signed off by saying, “The experience has been excellent so far. I have learned a lot. As a fast bowler, you need to adapt to any condition and situation, and that's how you learn. I decided to bowl the way I have been bowling; I didn't want to experiment or change anything.

As fast bowlers, we need to assess the conditions and analyze the batsmen, and that’s what I do during the match. My focus is always on the batsman. I don't put extra burden on myself because it leads to pressure. I just try to stick to the basics and focus on the team's plans.”