In the world of cricket, mentorship can often be the catalyst for monumental career leaps.
For Akash Deep, a young pacer from Bengal, this transformation was sparked by none other than the cricketing legend, Virat Kohli.
During a casual breakfast in the midst of the IPL 2022 season, Kohli imparted wisdom that would change the trajectory of Deep’s cricketing journey.
“India will need red-ball pacers in the future. You should also think about that,” Kohli had said, advice that was not just a suggestion but a prophetic direction for Deep’s career.
Virat Kohli’s Influence
Virat Kohli, known for his aggressive gameplay and leadership, has always been vocal about nurturing talent within his teams.
His interaction with Akash Deep was more than just a casual chat; it was a pivotal moment that redirected Deep’s focus towards Test cricket, a format demanding patience, skill, and strategy far different from the T20 or ODI formats.
Deep, who until then had his sights set primarily on the shorter formats, took this advice to heart.
“I wasn’t even thinking of red-ball cricket, but that’s when I started focusing on it,” Deep later revealed in an interview with Sports Launchpad by Saurav Yaduvanshi.
This advice from Kohli, embodying both foresight and encouragement, was not merely about technique or tactics but about envisioning a career in the longest and arguably the most challenging format of the game.
Kohli’s reputation as a ‘chill guy’ who is approachable and willing to share knowledge made his advice all the more impactful for Deep. The young bowler not only respected Kohli as a senior but also saw him as a mentor whose insights were invaluable.
From IPL to International Cricket
The transition from IPL to international cricket is often steep and fraught with challenges, but for Deep, Kohli’s mentorship provided a smoother passage.
Deep’s progression was swift; he made his Test debut for India against England in Ranchi, where he impressed by taking three wickets, signaling his arrival on the international stage.
His performance didn’t stop there; he continued to make significant contributions in subsequent matches against Bangladesh and New Zealand, capturing 10 wickets in just 5 matches before the daunting Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia.
The Border-Gavaskar Challenge
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy series is one of the toughest tests for any cricketer, particularly for a new player like Deep.
The series against Australia in 2024 was no less than a baptism by fire.
In Brisbane, Deep bowled tirelessly, completing 29.5 overs in the first innings, managing to take one wicket for 95 runs, showcasing his endurance and commitment.
In the same match, he improved his figures, taking 2 wickets for 28 runs in just 5 overs during the second innings, indicating his adaptability and learning curve even under pressure.
However, the series was not without its trials. In Melbourne, Deep bowled 26 overs for two wickets at 94 runs, and then 17 overs without success, conceding 53 runs.
Despite these challenges, his performances were a testament to his potential and the impact of Kohli’s advice.
Unfortunately, a niggle prevented him from playing in the final Test, cutting short what could have been a more extensive showcase of his abilities.
Looking Forward
Despite the mixed results in Australia, Deep’s journey in Test cricket is far from over. His performances have shown promise, and his inclusion in future series, like the anticipated IND vs ENG Test series in June 2025, seems highly probable.
The focus on red-ball cricket, as advised by Kohli, has not only shaped his current skill set but also prepared him for the rigorous demands of Test cricket.
The story of Akash Deep is a vivid example of how a single piece of advice, given in the right context by the right person, can catalyze a career.
Kohli’s mentorship has been a beacon for Deep, guiding him from the sidelines of IPL to the center stage of international Test cricket.
As Deep continues to evolve, the cricketing world watches with interest, knowing well that his journey, inspired by Kohli, might just be at its nascent stage, with many more chapters of success yet to be written.
