Akash Deep made headlines with his latest performance during India’s 280-run win over Bangladesh in the first Test in Chennai. With Mohammed Shami out of Bangladesh’s Tests, Akash took on the role of the big spinner and provided early breakthroughs to India in Chennai.

Well, it’s not just about filling a big space, but also shouldering the immense responsibility that comes with replacing such an iconic player like Shami. Akash said he fully understands the weight of the responsibility.

Akash Deep is determined to repay India’s faith with performances after replacing Mohammed Shami

Replacing a player who has delivered countless wins for India is not just a matter of pressure but also a huge responsibility. Mohammed Shami’s contributions with the ball made him the backbone of India’s pace attack for years, and Akash knows that the expectations placed on him are very high.

But rather than feeling overwhelmed, the young player is determined and takes the challenge as an opportunity to repay the trust that the team’s management and veteran players have shown in him.

Test cricket is the toughest format of the game, and replacing someone like Shami demands more than just skill; as the pacer admitted, it demands a strategic mindset, focus and the ability to handle pressure.

Well, Akash’s approach is clear regarding his game. He said it’s all about sticking to the basics, maintaining discipline and relentlessly focusing on the right areas.

It feels great to play in the place of a great bowler: Akash Deep

Akash Deep further revealed that his aim is not just to replicate Mohammed Shami’s legacy but to make his own mark, using this platform to take wickets and prove his value to the team.

Akash Deep told the Times of India: “Responsibility – that’s what I feel in the absence of a veteran bowler. He has done a lot for the country and it’s great to play in place of such a good bowler. To fulfil that role and perform is a big challenge and I feel that responsibility.

“I want to repay the trust that the management, captain, senior players and coaches have placed in me. I just want to go through the process, bowl in good areas and get wickets for my team.”

Akash Deep highlights the key lessons he learnt during his early Test career

Meanwhile, Akash Deep reflected on his journey as a Test cricketer as he is playing in only his second series after his stint in England. The player described the experience as invaluable.

Akash Deep highlighted how much he has learnt during this time, particularly about the need for fast bowlers to adapt to different conditions and situations. His approach has been to stay true to his natural style of bowling without unnecessarily experimenting or making changes that might disrupt his rhythm.

Akash Deep concluded by saying, “The experience so far has been great. I have learnt a lot. As a fast bowler, you have to adapt to any condition and situation and that is how you learn. I decided to play the way I have been playing so far; I didn’t want to experiment or change anything.

As fast bowlers, we need to assess the conditions and analyse the batsmen, and that is what I do during the match. My focus is always on the batsman. I don’t put extra burden on myself because that creates pressure. I just try to stick to the basics and concentrate on the team’s plans.”