Akash Deep explains why it's hard for him to follow Bumrah

Akash Deep said as much as he wants to learn from Jasprit Bumrah, it’s almost impossible for him to replicate what India’s ace paceman can do on the field. Akash Deep, who made his Test debut earlier this year, has been picked in the Indian squad for the opening Test against Bangladesh in Chennai, starting on September 19.

“Every bowler in the world has their own unique action and technique, and each one is great in their own way. I follow Rabada a bit, and Bumrah is a legend. It’s hard to follow him,” the Bengal pacer was quoted as saying by IANS.

“Bumrah bhai ko bhagwan ne alag hi bana ke bheja hai (He has been uniquely crafted by God), and I can’t learn everything from him. I also observe Siraj and learn from him. I pick up small things from various bowlers, but I don’t follow just one bowler too much.”

The right-arm fast bowler, who picked up three wickets on his Test debut against England, was sensational in the first round of the Duleep Trophy 2024. Playing for India A, Akash Deep picked up nine wickets in the game and also smashed 43 off 42 in the final innings.

“This is a huge responsibility that I have been given, allowing me to serve my team. Shami Bhai is currently injured… I see this as a responsibility and am trying my best to live up to the faith that the selectors and BCCI management have placed in me,” said Akash Deep ahead of the first of the two Tests against Bangladesh.

Talking about Rohit Sharma’s captaincy, the 27-year-old said: “I played my first match under Rohit Bhaiya in Ranchi. I was thinking about how difficult it would be to play my debut match for the country. 

“There’s something special about him—when I played that first game, it didn’t even feel like I was playing for India. He manages things so well, talks in a way that puts you at ease, and gives simple plans that make cricket easier. Playing under him is a matter of luck for any cricketer.”

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