Akash Deep made an immediate impact in Jasprit Bumrah’s absence during the second Test against England at Edgbaston on July 3, 2025. Coming into the side as Bumrah was rested to manage his workload, Deep dismissed Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope for ducks in the same over, reducing England to 13/2 early in their first innings. His early breakthroughs put India in a commanding position on Day 2[5].
Former India cricketer Irfan Pathan had earlier advocated for Akash Deep’s inclusion should Bumrah be rested, noting that Deep’s seam and swing skills, as well as his straight-seam deliveries, present a threat similar to that of Mohammed Shami. Pathan highlighted that Deep’s bowling style may prove more effective in English conditions than the hit-the-deck approach used by other Indian pacers[1][3].
Earlier in the year, Akash Deep overcame a back injury sustained during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series and returned to competitive cricket ahead of IPL 2025. He joined the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and was declared “100% fit and ready” to play after his injury layoff. The 28-year-old pacer was acquired by LSG for INR 8 crore at the 2025 IPL auction after being released by Royal Challengers Bengaluru[2][4].
Since making his international Test debut against England in Ranchi in February 2024, Akash Deep has played seven Tests, taking 15 wickets. His form and fitness are seen as a significant boost for both the Indian national team and his IPL franchise[2][4].
References
- [1] Akash Deep offers Shami-like threat, should replace Bumrah if needed: Irfan Pathan
- [2] IPL 2025: Akash Deep joins camp ahead of Mumbai Indians clash
- [3] Irfan Pathan explains why Akash Deep should replace Jasprit Bumrah in 2nd Test against England
- [4] LSG’s Akash Deep ‘100% fit and ready’ after long injury layoff – ESPN
- [5] Akash Deep makes instant impact in Jasprit Bumrah’s absence by dismissing Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope for ducks in ENG vs IND 2025 2nd Test