The Inspiring Journey of Akash Deep: From Personal Losses to Making a Mark Against England
For Akash Deep, the path to playing for the national cricket team was anything but smooth. Originating from Bihar, this player witnessed numerous phases of struggle in his life, including the devastating losses of his father and brother and facing severe financial difficulties that once forced him to abandon cricket.
A Debut to Remember
Akash Deep, a fast bowler from Bengal, made an unforgettable debut in Test cricket against England in Ranchi. At the age of 27, stepping into the fourth match of the five-Test series, Akash made an immediate impact by taking the first three wickets of England’s innings. He was given the opportunity to play in place of the experienced fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah, who was rested for the match. Akash justified the trust placed in him by captain Rohit Sharma with a memorable performance.
The Challenges Along the Way
Akash’s journey to playing for his country was fraught with challenges. The loss of his father and brother within a span of six months in 2015 was a severe blow. His father passed away due to a stroke, followed by his brother’s demise shortly after. The financial constraints faced by his family forced Akash to take a break from cricket for three years to care for his mother.
Despite these hardships, Akash never lost his passion for cricket. He knew deep down that he couldn’t stay away from the sport for long. Eventually, he moved to Durgapur and then to Kolkata, sharing a small room with his brother and striving to make a comeback in cricket.
Support in Tough Times
Akash always expresses his gratitude towards his friend who stood by him during his difficult times. His friend’s support helped him get opportunities to play club cricket in Durgapur, where he could earn a living by playing tennis ball cricket. Moreover, an uncle in Durgapur also played a crucial role in encouraging Akash to focus on cricket and helped him navigate through the tough times.
In 2019, Akash made his debut for Bengal in first-class cricket and also got the chance to play in List A and T20 formats the same year. These opportunities marked the beginning of a new chapter in his cricketing career.
Akash Deep’s Cricketing Career
Before making his international debut, Akash had already showcased his talent in domestic cricket. He played 30 first-class matches for Bengal, taking 104 wickets. In the List A format, he picked up 42 wickets in 28 matches, and in T20s, he claimed 48 wickets in 41 matches. Akash also made a mark in the Indian Premier League (IPL), playing for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), led by Virat Kohli. In the seven matches he played, he took six wickets, demonstrating his potential at the highest level.
Overcoming Adversity
Akash’s journey is a testament to his resilience and determination. Despite the personal losses and financial challenges, he never gave up on his dreams. His story is not just about cricket but about overcoming adversity and proving that with hard work and perseverance, one can achieve their goals.
His debut against England in Ranchi was not just a personal achievement for Akash but an inspiration for many young aspiring cricketers who face similar challenges. It shows that no matter the obstacles, with dedication and support, it is possible to reach the pinnacle of success.
A Beacon of Hope
Akash Deep’s story is a beacon of hope for aspiring athletes facing personal and financial challenges. It underscores the importance of support from friends and family, the value of perseverance, and the belief in one’s dreams. Akash’s journey from the small town in Bihar to making a significant impact in international cricket is a narrative of inspiration, hope, and the triumph of the human spirit against all odds.
In conclusion, Akash Deep’s story is not just about cricket; it’s about facing life’s fast balls with courage and emerging victorious. His remarkable debut against England is just the beginning. The cricketing world looks forward to witnessing more of his achievements on the field, inspiring future generations to chase their dreams, no matter the hardships they face.