Featuring in three Tests on the tour, Akash Deep impressed with both ball and bat—claiming 13 wickets at an average of 36.46 and smashing a vital half-century. He was instrumental in India’s wins at Edgbaston and The Oval, especially with his sensational 10-wicket haul in the second Test. That feat saw him equal Chetan Sharma’s long-standing record as only the second Indian bowler to claim 10 wickets in a Test match in England.
His gritty batting in the second innings at The Oval added further to his heroics, earning him widespread recognition. The five-match series ended in a thrilling 2-2 draw, with Gambhir receiving plaudits for steering a youthful Indian side to an impressive performance on English soil.
Akash Deep opens up on Gautam Gambhir’s support during England series
In a recent interview with PTI, India seamer Akash Deep praised head coach Gautam Gambhir for his unwavering belief and constant motivation. Recalling Gambhir’s words after his 66-run knock at The Oval Test, Akash said:
“Tumko khud pata nahi tum kya kar sakte ho (You don’t even realise your own capabilities). See, I told you, you can do it. You must play with this dedication always.”
Akash Deep described Gambhir as a “very passionate coach” who believes in him more than he believes in himself, in both batting and bowling.
The 28-year-old also hailed Test captain Shubman Gill as a calm and supportive leader who understands his players. Having played under Gill in the Duleep Trophy, Akash Deep said his composure and tactical ideas made a huge difference, especially for newcomers.
Gill, appointed skipper ahead of the 2025 England tour, silenced critics by guiding a young Indian side to a 2-2 series draw. He led from the front, scoring 754 runs in 10 innings with four centuries, sharing the Player of the Series award with England’s Harry Brook.
