Indian pacer Akash Deep has updated on his injury recovery ahead of the last Test in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25, which he had to sit out due to a stiff back injury. The 28-year-old bowler had played two matches in the series and picked up five wickets.
Rehabilitation Process and Recovery Timeline
Akash Deep was unavailable for the final Test match in Sydney due to injury. The pacer has confirmed that he hasn’t bowled yet as he is still following the recovery protocol laid down by the National Cricket Academy (NCA). Deep was advised to take complete 15-day rest and he is strictly following it.
Speaking after the conclusion of Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Akash Deep said, “All good. My recovery is on course, and since I had been playing non-stop cricket for a considerable period, I was advised to off-load (complete rest) for 15 days. I am following the advice of NCA, and once they instruct me to start bowling, I will do so.”
Good Contributions Despite Injuries
Though Akash Deep’s wicket-taking count was not as rich as some of his teammates in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, he played a vital role in other aspects. The most notable contribution came with the bat in the third Test at Brisbane when his crucial 31 runs off 44 balls helped India avoid the follow-on and saved the team in tough conditions. His 47-run partnership with Jasprit Bumrah for the 10th wicket was the game-changer for India during their innings.
Bowling Strategy and Future Plans
In addition to the batting contributions, Deep also spoke about his approach towards bowling in the series. According to him, his focus was mainly on maintaining discipline, bowling in good areas, and waiting for batsmen to make a mistake. “My endeavour was to maintain discipline, bowl in good areas and wait for the batter to make a mistake… doesn’t matter if the ball is new, semi-new or old,” he explained.
Deep will be in contention for India’s five-Test tour of England in June 2025 as the swinging and seaming conditions in the UK suit his bowling style.
Akash Deep is recovering well from the injury and will be completely fit for action soon. Following the guidelines laid out by the NCA, his recovery is highly disciplined; come the next tours, the whole of India will be looking forward to his return to the Indian team.