IPL 2022: You Deserve To Be Here, Just Keep Performing What You've Been Doing- Virat Kohli To RCB Pacer Akash Deep

Updated - 14 Jun 2022, 12:50 PM

Akash Deep
Akash Deep (Image: RCB)

Royal Challengers Bangalore pacer Akash Deep, who debuted in the 15th edition of the IPL with the RCB earlier this year, said senior India player Virat Kohli advised him that you have earned his spot in this room. Simply continue to do what you’ve always done.

In IPL 2021, the right-arm seamer was first selected as a replacement for the injured Washington Sundar by Royal Challengers Bangalore.

Akash Deep
Akash Deep (Image: BCCI)

Akash Deep, who is guiding Bengal’s bowling attack against Madhya Pradesh in the Ranji Trophy semi-final, produced his IPL breakthrough against Punjab Kings. Kohli himself presented him with the cap. Akash Deep described it as a “dream come true.”

Virat Kohli. Photo-IPL
Virat Kohli. Photo-IPL

“I was astounded that he understands where I’m from, my journey, my struggles, and everything.” He said to me as he handed me the cap, ‘You deserve to be here.’ Just keep doing what you’ve always done. Just have fun and stick to your process.’ “It was a very emotional experience,” said Akash Deep.

‘Entire IPL 2022 was a learning experience for me’: Akash Deep

In the five matches he played in this year’s IPL, the 25-year-old cricketer took five wickets. He certainly enjoyed the chance to share the dressing room with Australia’s seasoned fast bowler Josh Hazlewood.

“The entire IPL 2022 season was a learning opportunity for me, and once we would be out of the bubble, I followed Josh everywhere.” I ended up spending the majority of time with him. It was unbelievable because I had been watching his bowling on YouTube and then I was hitting the ball alongside him.”

Josh Hazlewood RCB (Image Credits: IPL)
Josh Hazlewood RCB (Image Credits: IPL)

“Most of the conversations used to revolve around fast bowling. “His off-stump line, mental strength, how he initiates batsmen, match preparation, workload management, and how he deals with injuries,” he added.

Royal Challengers Bangalore’s journey in the IPL 2022 came to an end when they were defeated by Rajasthan Royals by seven wickets in IPL 2022 Qualifier 2 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Also Read: IND vs SA: Aakash Chopra Questions The Team Management Over The Non Selection Of Shikhar Dhawan

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IPL 2022 Josh Hazlewood Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) Virat Kohli