[Watch] Akash Deep takes blessings from his mother after receiving India test cap No. 313

Akash Deep received his maiden India test cap from head coach Rahul Dravid.

Bengal pacer Akash Deep marked his test debut for India in a memorable way, picking up three crucial wickets (Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope and Zak Crawley) before lunch break on the opening day of the ongoing fourth test match against England at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi.

The Bengal pacer Akash Deep came in as replacement for Jasprit Bumrah, who was rested for workload management purposes. The debutant has been so far impressive in domestic cricket, claiming 104 wickets in 30 First-Class matches at an average of 23.58.

The young Bengal Pacer Akash Deep, who received his test cap just before the toss from Indian head coach Rahul Dravid, looked impressive with his bowling on day 1 of Ranchi test.

The right-arm pacer got his maiden test wicket as he dismissed opener Ben Duckett. Later, Akash Deep trapped Ollie Pope LBW, and then he castled Zak Crawley’s stump and put hosts on top as the visitors were rocked back to 112/5 at lunch break on day 1.

“Your journey started from a place named Baddi:” Rahul Dravid to Akash Deep

In a recent video uploaded on BCCI’s official handle ‘X’ (formerly Twitter), Indian head coach Rahul Dravid was seen getting emotional while handing over the test debut cap to Bengal pacer Akash Deep. Dravid also reflected on Akash Deep’s cricketing journey.

“Akash, your journey started from a place named Baddi, which is roughly 200 km away from here (Ranchi). You have faced a lot of hardships in this journey. You have worked hard. You have seen a lot of ups and downs,” Rahul Dravid said.

“You, on your own, moved from Baddi to Delhi to play cricket. You were inspired by the 2007 T20 World Cup. You stayed in Delhi and put in the effort. Then, you moved to Kolkata from Delhi. You played domestic cricket and put in inspiring performances. Your journey has taken you to Ranchi, which is 200kms from your home and you are going to get your India cap here (today),” Dravid added.

Words that inspire 🗣️ ft. Rahul DravidDreams that come true 🥹A debut vision like never seen before 🎥Akash Deep – What a story 📝#TeamIndia | #INDvENG | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/vSOSmgECfC

— BCCI (@BCCI) February 23, 2024

The debutant Akash Deep, who hails from Sasaram in Bihar, first lost his father in 2015, and after two months, he lost his elder brother as well. The tragic incident happened when both of his family members needed urgent medical attention but failed to reach the hospital in time.

“It is a special feeling for you as you as your mother is here along with some of your family members. It is unfortunate that your father and elder brother are no more. But we are sure that they are blessing you from wherever they are. Our entire team is wishing you. Please enjoy this moment and this match. You have worked hard to reach here and this has been your dream. We are happy that we are here with you to fulfil this dream. Enjoy these five days and your entire career,” Dravid said.

“With great joy, I present to you India Cap No. 313,” Dravid added handing over the cap to Akash.

Say hello to #TeamIndia newest Test debutant – Akash Deep 👋A moment to cherish for him as he receives his Test cap from Head Coach Rahul Dravid 👏 👏Follow the match ▶️ https://t.co/FUbQ3Mhpq9 #INDvENG | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/P8A0L5RpPM

— BCCI (@BCCI) February 23, 2024

“Bahut acha lag raha ha:” Akash Deep’s mother on his son debut

After Akash Deep got his maiden Indian test cap from head coach Rahul Dravid, the Bengal pacer got a warm hug from captain Rohit Sharma, and other teammates patted him on the back. 

After this, Akash Deep straight went to his mother, and the debutant Indian pacer was seen touching his mother’s feet and was also hugging her as the other family members congratulated him.

“Bahut acha lag raha hai, vyakt nahi kar sakte hai (It’s a greet feeling. I can’t explain it in words),” Akash Deep’s mother, who was present during the ceremony said.

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