Akash Deep reveals how Virat Kohli-gifted bat saved the Gabba Test for India

Indian pacer Akash Deep revealed how Virat Kohli played an important role in helping the team avoid a follow-on during the Gabba Test in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). Akash Deep shared a memorable moment when Virat Kohli offered him one of his signature bats during the third Test.

The Men in Blue initially took a 1-0 lead in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy with an emphatic victory in Perth, but Australia regained control over the following six weeks. The hosts won three out of the remaining four matches and reclaimed the BGT trophy after a decade of India’s dominance in the series.

Virat Bhaiya Ne Khud Mujhse Pucha, 'Tumko Bat Chahiye?' - Akash Deep

During a challenging match at the Gabba in Brisbane, Akash Deep, and Jasprit Bumrah shared a crucial partnership of 47 runs for the tenth wicket, helping India avoid a follow-on and all but securing a draw in rain-affected conditions.

Reflecting on his innings, Akash Deep revealed he used one of Virat Kohli’s signature bats, which the former Indian skipper had offered him before the match. Akash recalled how Kohli had asked him if he needed a bat, to which he eagerly accepted.

"Yes, that was Virat bhaiya's bat, the one with MRF logo, everyone knows," Akash said in a sit-down with PTI.

"Bhaiyya (Kohli) ne khud mujhse pucha 'Tumko bat chahiye?' (Virat bhaiyya asked me, do you need a bat?). Maine bola 'Haan bhaiyya, aapka bat kaun nahi lena chahega duniya mein?' (I said ‘Yes, who in the world wouldn’t want your bat?’) Then he presented it to me," he explained further.

Virat Kohli On His Own Gave Me The Bat - Akash Deep

Akash Deep admitted that it felt intimidating to ask Virat Kohli, given his stature and focus during match time. However, Kohli, on his own initiative, offered Akash his bat. Akash made excellent use of the bat, playing a crucial role in helping India avoid a loss in the game.

"I have been there with bhaiyya (Kohli) for some time now. But you always have that thing at the back of your mind, whether it is the right thing to ask for a bat from someone of Virat bhaiyya's stature.”

"Especially during match time, when he is focussed and in his zone, you don't want to disturb him but bhaiyya, on his own, gave me the bat," said Akash.

This Was Not the First Time Kohli Had Gifted Akash a Bat

Akash joined Bumrah when India still needed 33 runs to avoid the follow-on. They managed to help the team avoid the follow-on with a patient defense. Akash cleared the follow-on mark with a cut shot over the slip cordon before launching a memorable six over midwicket off the very next ball.

This wasn't the first time Virat had gifted Akash a bat. During the home series against Bangladesh, Kohli had also given Akash one of his signature bats, showcasing the strong camaraderie within the Indian team.

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