Bengal pacer dedicates match-winning 10-wicket performance to sister battling cancer; career-defining moment at Edgbaston
India’s landmark Test win at Edgbaston will be remembered for many reasons, but perhaps none more heart-touching than Akash Deep‘s dedication. While his name is now etched in Indian cricket history for his phenomenal 10-wicket haul, behind his aggression and accuracy on the field was an emotional drive: his elder sister, who is battling cancer.
The 28-year-old pacer, drafted into the playing XI after Jasprit Bumrah was rested, seized the opportunity with a remarkable display of pace and precision. Deep registered figures of 4/88 in the first innings and 6/99 in the second, completing his maiden 10-wicket match haul. His bowling was instrumental in skittling England out for 271 after they were set an almost unthinkable 608 to win. India, as a result, registered their first-ever Test win at Edgbaston, leveling the five-match series 1-1 with a commanding 336-run victory their biggest overseas win in terms of runs.
But the performance wasn’t just about numbers. After the match, Akash Deep revealed the emotional undercurrent behind his aggressive spell: “This match was for my sister. She’s fighting her own battle back home, and this is my way of supporting her,” he said, his voice cracking with emotion. His statement turned the cricketing spotlight toward a deeply personal moment of strength, courage, and resilience.
Former India legend Sachin Tendulkar praised Deep’s spell, particularly his dismissal of Joe Root. Delivered from wide of the crease, the ball seemed to angle in before sharply seaming away, knocking back Root’s off-stump. Tendulkar called it the “ball of the series.” The delivery not only dismissed one of the world’s finest batters but also symbolized Deep’s arrival on the international stage.
Also read: Gill’s Genius, Deep’s Destruction: India Crushes England to Rewrite History at Edgbaston
India’s bowling unit looked formidable even in Bumrah’s absence, with Mohammed Siraj also picking up crucial wickets. But it was Akash Deep who stood out, constantly asking questions of the English batters. His energy, control, and ability to extract movement off the pitch made life extremely difficult for England’s top order.
India captain Shubman Gill, whose own performance in the Test was nothing short of historic with twin scores of 269 and 161, lauded Akash Deep’s impact. “He bowled his heart out. For someone who is relatively new at this level, the way he handled pressure and delivered when it mattered most shows his temperament and maturity,” Gill said.
India’s bench strength continues to impress. With names like Mukesh Kumar, Prasidh Krishna, and now Akash Deep stepping up when given a chance, it is clear that the pipeline is rich. Deep’s performance has sparked conversations about team selection for the third Test at Lord’s, especially since Bumrah is set to return. Dropping a bowler who has just delivered a match-winning ten-wicket haul would be a tough call for the team management.
Off the field, social media was flooded with praise for Akash Deep. Hashtags like #AkashDeepRising and #PlayerOfTheMatch trended across platforms. His hometown in Bihar celebrated his feat with pride, with local clubs and schools holding rallies and felicitations in his name.
What makes Deep’s story even more inspiring is his journey. Hailing from a modest background in Bihar, he moved to Bengal to pursue his cricketing dreams. After years of grinding in domestic cricket, he earned his India cap, and now, he has delivered one of the most memorable bowling performances in recent years.
Looking ahead, Akash Deep’s future looks bright. If he continues in the same vein, India might have unearthed another gem for the long haul. His performance at Edgbaston was not just a cricketing achievement; it was a testament to the power of personal motivation, resilience, and belief.
As India prepares for the third Test at Lord’s, the management faces a pleasant headache. But one thing is certain – Akash Deep has made it clear that he is here to stay.
