BGT 2024-25: Akash Deep ruled out of 5th test in Sydney, confirms head coach Gautam Gambhir

Akash Deep took five wickets across two matches in BGT 2024-25.

Speedster Akash Deep has been ruled out of the fifth and last test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25, scheduled to begin in Sydney on January 3.

Akash’s absence is a big setback for India, making them even more dependent on Jasprit Bumrah. Despite limited success, Akash has been promising.

The 28-year-old seamer took five wickets in two tests during the series at an average of 54. Playing his first test of the ongoing BGT in Brisbane, Akash caused a lot of plays and misses but was unlucky to get more wickets.

Gautam Gambhir confirms Akash Deep’s absence from Sydney test

Speaking to the media before the New Year’s test, Indian coach Gautam Gambhir confirmed that Akash has a back issue and will miss the Sydney test.

Gambhir said, “Akash Deep is out because he got a back issue. That’s the only injury concern.“

India will look to Harshit Rana or Prasidh Krishna to replace Akash in Sydney. Harshit played the first two tests of the series in Perth and Adelaide, taking four wickets at an average of 50.75. He was impressive in Perth on his test debut but was underwhelming in Adelaide.

Prasidh, on the other hand, last played a test in January 2024 against South Africa in Cape Town, where he took one wicket across both innings.

Regarding the team’s playing XI for the decider, Gambhir stated that the decision would be made on matchday after assessing the pitch.

The Indian coach said, “We will look at the wicket and announce the playing XI tomorrow.“

When asked why skipper Rohit Sharma was not addressing the pre-match press conference, Gambhir downplayed any concerns, explaining that it was a routine decision.

He said, “Everything is fine with Rohit. There’s nothing unusual about this. The head coach is here, and that should be sufficient.”

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