Akash Deep

Akash Deep: Rising Fast Bowler of India

Akash Deep, born on 15 December 1996, is an Indian cricketer known for his right-arm fast-medium bowling. As a right-handed lower-order batter, he has made a mark in both domestic and international cricket. Akash Deep started his career from humble beginnings in Dehri, Bihar, and has risen to represent India at the international level. His journey is an inspiring tale of passion, persistence, and dedication.

Quick Profile & Career Overview

Category	Details
Full Name	Akash Deep
Date of Birth	15 December 1996
Age	28
Birthplace	Dehri, Bihar, India
Height	1.85 m (6 ft 1 in)
Batting Style	Right-handed
Bowling Style	Right-arm fast-medium
Role	Bowler
National Side	India
Teams	Bengal, Mohun Bagan, Royal Challengers Bangalore, Lucknow Super Giants
Test Debut	23 February 2024 vs England
Last Test	26 December 2024 vs Australia

Early Life and Background

Akash Deep was born on 15 December 1996, in Dehri, Bihar. He grew up in a modest household, with his father Ramji Singh working as a government school teacher. Despite challenges, Akash Deep remained focused on his dream of playing professional cricket.

Struggles and Determination

From a young age, Akash Deep showed exceptional talent and passion for cricket. However, the Bihar Cricket Association was suspended during his formative years, leaving aspiring cricketers with limited opportunities. Undeterred, Akash moved to Kolkata, West Bengal, where he joined the United Club in the CAB first division league in 2010. To manage his expenses, he played tennis-ball matches, earning around INR 600 per day. Despite societal pressure and his father's wish for him to pursue a government job, Akash remained steadfast in his cricketing aspirations.

Transition to Professional Cricket

Akash initially joined a local academy as a batsman, but his growing height and athletic build prompted his coaches to suggest a switch to fast bowling. Under the guidance of Ranadeb Bose as part of India's Vision 2020 programme, Akash improved his bowling skills. Within a year, he was selected for the Bengal U-23 cricket team.

Challenges and Recovery

While progressing through the ranks, Akash faced a career-threatening back injury. His coach, Sourasish Lahiri, supported him during rehabilitation, helping him bounce back stronger. Akash's dedication to cricket never wavered, even during testing times.

Domestic and Franchise Career

Domestic Debut and Early Success

Akash Deep made his Twenty20 debut for Bengal in the 2018–19 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy on 9 March 2019. His List A debut followed on 24 September 2019, during the 2019–20 Vijay Hazare Trophy. He made his first-class debut on 25 December 2019 in the 2019–20 Ranji Trophy.

Format	Matches	Wickets	Best Bowling	Bowling Average
First-class	38	128	6/60	24.19
List A	28	42	3/6	24.5
T20	42	49	4/35	23.46

Indian Premier League (IPL) Journey

Royal Challengers Bangalore (2022–2024)

In August 2021, Akash Deep was drafted into the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) squad for the 2021 IPL. Impressed by his pace and accuracy, RCB retained him for the 2022 IPL season. In his debut season, he picked up 11 wickets and became a crucial part of RCB’s bowling attack.

Lucknow Super Giants (2025–Present)

In 2025, Akash Deep joined Lucknow Super Giants and continued his form as a reliable fast bowler. His ability to bowl under pressure made him a vital player in the IPL circuit.

Season	Team	Matches	Wickets	Best Bowling
2022	Royal Challengers Bangalore	10	11	4/35
2023	Royal Challengers Bangalore	12	14	3/22
2024	Royal Challengers Bangalore	8	9	3/28
2025	Lucknow Super Giants	11	13	4/21

International Career

Test Debut and Performances

Akash Deep made his Test debut on 23 February 2024 against England. Although the match ended in defeat, Akash showcased his potential by taking 3 wickets for 83 runs. His sharp pace and bounce troubled English batters.

Significant Test Matches

Opponent	Venue	Wickets	Best Bowling
England	Kolkata	3	3/83
Australia	Melbourne	4	4/67
South Africa	Cape Town	5	5/74

ODI and T20I Career

Although Akash has not yet made his ODI and T20I debut, his consistent performances in domestic and IPL matches are likely to earn him a spot in the limited-overs squad soon.

Playing Style and Strengths

Akash Deep's bowling style is characterized by:

1. Consistent Pace: Regularly clocks around 140-145 km/h.
2. Effective Bouncers: Keeps batsmen guessing with short-pitched deliveries.
3. Accurate Yorkers: Uses pinpoint yorkers in death overs.
4. Swing Bowling: Can generate both in-swing and out-swing.

Achievements and Records

1. 5-Wicket Hauls in First-Class: Achieved 5 five-wicket hauls.
2. Career Best Bowling: 6/60 in Ranji Trophy.
3. Consistent IPL Performer: Key bowler for RCB and LSG.

Personal Life and Challenges

Growing up in Dehri, Bihar, Akash faced immense challenges, especially with limited opportunities for budding cricketers. Despite pressure from his family to pursue a government job, he remained committed to cricket. The tragic demise of his father and elder brother put the responsibility of family on his shoulders. Akash balanced earning and practicing cricket to sustain his dreams.

Turning Point

Joining the United Club in Kolkata was a pivotal moment, where his talent was nurtured. With the support of Ranadeb Bose and Sourasish Lahiri, he became one of Bengal’s most promising bowlers.

Future Prospects

Given his current form and consistent performances, Akash Deep is likely to become a regular feature in the Indian national team. He has already shown glimpses of brilliance in the Test format and continues to grow as a fast-bowling spearhead. Akash Deep's story is one of perseverance and dedication. From humble beginnings to representing India on the international stage, his journey is an inspiration to aspiring cricketers. His ability to deliver under pressure, combined with his relentless determination, makes him a valuable asset to Indian cricket. The future looks bright for this young and dynamic fast bowler.