India pacer Akash Deep slams maiden Test fifty after friendly team taunts, becomes surprise batting hero in 5th Test vs England.
Akash Deep’s Fifty Turns the Game Around
India’s young pacer Akash Deep surprised fans and teammates alike by not just picking 4 wickets but also smashing a crucial 66 off 94 balls in the second innings of the 5th Test match against England. His gritty knock helped India post 396/10, putting the pressure right back on the visitors.
But what made Akash’s innings even more special? A bit of light-hearted banter in the Indian dressing room.
“Thoda Toh Contribute Karo”: Shubman Gill Reveals Team Banter
Post Day 3, Indian batter Shubman Gill spilled the beans on some behind-the-scenes chatter.
“We usually keep having banter about this. Batters keep telling bowlers, ‘thoda toh contribute karo’. I think today, Akash gave a great reply!” — Shubman Gill to BCCI
Gill’s remark reflects the often-fun yet motivating culture within the team, where bowlers are nudged to contribute with the bat — and Akash surely delivered.
KL Rahul’s Pep Talk Pays Off
Senior batter KL Rahul also shared that he had a quick chat with Akash before the match, offering some important batting advice:
“Just had a brief chat… told him to think like a batter. Don’t throw your wicket away. Play your shots, enjoy it, but be responsible too.”
Rahul’s guidance clearly had an impact, as Akash played with focus and composure.
Nightwatchman to Hero: Akash’s Special Partnership
Akash came in as a nightwatchman at No. 4, a rare move in itself. Yet he didn’t just survive — he thrived, especially during a 100+ partnership with Yashasvi Jaiswal.
“I went to sleep thinking — no rash shots. Even if I get hit, I’ll stay. That mindset helped,” Akash said.
Akash Deep’s Knock: Why It Matters
- Maiden Test fifty under pressure
- Helped India reach a challenging total
- Showcased temperament and maturity
- Boosted team morale
- Strengthened India’s bench depth
Final Thoughts: A New Star Emerges
What started as dressing-room teasing turned into one of the most memorable innings by a bowler in recent times. Akash Deep’s fifty wasn’t just a personal milestone — it was a statement of intent and team spirit.
Also Read : RJ Mahvash Buys Team in Cricket League T10; Ex-IPL Star Shaun Marsh Named Captain
