The fourth Test match between India and England is starting from Friday in Ranchi. Uncapped fast bowler Akash Deep is in the race for a place in the playing XI to support Mohammad Siraj in the fourth Test as he was seen working up a sweat in a practice session here on Thursday. The 27-year-old right-arm fast bowler had a rigorous bowling practice in the nets with Bengal teammate Mukesh Kumar on Wednesday and also took part in a long batting session on the eve of the Test match.
Ashwin inspected the pitch with coach Dravid
On Thursday, only five other Indian players, Shubman Gill, R. Ashwin, KS Bharath, Washington Sundar and Devdutt Padikal came to practice in the nets. While Ashwin was busy inspecting the pitch with head coach Rahul Dravid and other members of the support staff, Gill faced a throwdown by the local bowlers.
Batting coach Vikram Rathore said a big thing
India had to start Rajat Patidar, Dhruv Jurrell and Sarfaraz Khan in the absence of Virat Kohli, KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer. Now, fast bowling leader Jasprit Bumrah has also been rested for the Ranchi Test, so Akash Deep could be the next player to make his Test debut. Home team’s batting coach Vikram Rathore said about Akash Deep that whichever player is included in the Indian team, he will be a special cricketer.
Akash Deep is likely to make his debut for India in the 4th Test Match against England at Ranchi. (Indian Express) pic.twitter.com/AcixPAGBY2
— CricketMAN2 (@ImTanujSingh) February 21, 2024
Akash Deep’s good performance against England Lions
Akash Deep was included in the Indian squad after taking 12 wickets in three matches against England Lions. He said he looks like a good bowler who has done very well in domestic cricket. He has good pace, he bowls a good line.
Akash Deep will debut!
Let us tell you that the sky in Ranchi is expected to be overcast and it will be cooler than the other three places, due to which the role of fast bowlers could be important. Akash Deep’s speed could prove beneficial in such a situation and if he is included in the playing XI on Friday, he will become the 313th cricketer to wear an Indian Test cap.
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