Akash Deep, who claimed his maiden wicket haul against England in the 2nd Test, helped India register a famous win at Birmingham, defeating England by 336 runs. While he was delivering professionally on the field, his off-the-field story was deeply emotional he was quietly dealing with his sister’s battle with cancer.
Akash Deep’s Under-19 coach, Saurasish Lahiri, spoke to the Times of India and shared heartfelt stories about the right-arm seamer, who keeps a small circle of close friends one of whom is Lahiri himself, who is like an elder brother to him.
Also Read: Trauma & triumph: Akash Deep's stupendous performance at Edgbaston heals family
Coach Lahiri Shares Emotional Bond with Akash Deep
Lahiri said he was thrilled by Akash’s performance and called him after he took four wickets in the first innings.
“I was happy, but I said, 'Panja (five wickets) kab karega?' He said, 'Sir, main pakka karke dikhaunga.'” Akash then delivered in style with a six-wicket haul and took home the match ball.
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Akash Deep’s India Call-Up Came Amid Sister’s Health Crisis, Reveals Coach Lahiri
What Lahiri didn’t expect was learning that Akash had kept a personal struggle to himself. During their post-match call, Akash revealed he had been going through a family crisis during the IPL and got the call for his India selection while sitting at his sister’s hospital bedside.
"I was a little unhappy with him — he used to share everything with me. In fact, he found out he was in the India squad for the England tour while filling out hospital forms for his sister,” Lahiri said.
Also Read: MCC states Akash Deep's delivery to Castle Joe Root was legal
Akash Deep Rises Amid Adversity
Lahiri also mentioned that a few months earlier, Akash helped his brother-in-law, who was battling a serious nerve-related illness, by getting him the best treatment in Mumbai.
“But his sister's illness came as a complete shock to me. Luckily, God has been kind. She was diagnosed early and is being treated well. Hopefully, by God’s grace and all our blessings, she will recover fully. And of course, the way Akash is performing — that makes her even happier,” he added.
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After a remarkable showing in the 2nd Test, Akash Deep may have cemented his place in the XI for the remainder of the series. He stepped up in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, forming a strong bowling duo with Mohammed Siraj that helped India secure the win at Edgbaston.
Now, with Bumrah returning for the 3rd Test at Lord’s starting Thursday, July 10, fans can look forward to an exciting new-ball partnership. Stay tuned for more updates.
