‘Will be as Quick as Mohammed Siraj and Mohammed Shami...': Sourav Ganguly on Pacer to Look Out for

Outstanding performance by Akash Deep has resulted in a call-up to India's Test cricket squad for the next series against Bangladesh . Set to start on September 19, 2024, the much awaited 2-match Test series as India will eye glory in this format after a long return. Most admirers and critics are keen to see the bright young talent leave his imprint on the world scene.

Also Read: France captain Mbappé on bench vs. Belgium in Nations League

Sourav Ganguly hails Akash Deep after his call-up for India’s Test matches against Bangladesh  

Former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly has complimented Bengal fast bowler Akash Deep for his outstanding potential and skill. Ganguly thinks the 27-year-old pacer can bowl with speeds similar to Mohammed Siraj and Mohammed Shami, reaching up to the high 140s in kilometres per hour.

Selected for the Indian selection for the first Test against Bangladesh , Akash Deep will start at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on September 19. He recently proved his mettle with nine wickets for India A versus India B in Bengaluru's opening round of the 2024 Duleep Trophy at M Chinnaswamy Stadium. Ganguly praised Akash Deep at a recent Kolkata event, noting his great potential. According to the PTI, Sourav Ganguly said: 

“Akash Deep is an outstanding young fast bowler. He runs in, bowls quick, and will bowl for long periods. He is fit, I've seen him play for Bengal over a long period of time, taking wickets. He will be as quick as Mohammed Siraj and Mohammed Shami, hitting high 140s. He is one to watch out for.”

Early this year, in February, Akash Deep made his Test debut against England at Ranchi. With three important wickets—Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, and Ollie Pope—he left a memorable impact. Having played 32 first-class games where he has bagged 116 wickets at an average of 22.86, the right-arm bowler brings great experience to the table. Along with one ten-wicket match performance, his first-class career consists of five five-wicket hauls.

India’s full squad vs Bangladesh  

Rohit Sharma (C), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli , KL Rahul , Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (WK), Dhruv Jurel (WK), R Ashwin, R Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah , Yash Dayal.