In an electrifying moment during Day 4 of the third Test match at the Gabba, Brisbane, Akash Deep’s breathtaking six off Pat Cummins not only lifted India’s spirits but also left Virat Kohli absolutely awestruck. This remarkable shot was a game-changing moment as India fought hard to avoid the follow-on, finishing the day at 252/9, still trailing Australia by 193 runs.
India’s Fightback: Akash Deep Shines Under Pressure
Starting the day at 51/4, India was in a tough spot, with several rain delays adding more pressure. KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja stood firm, but their dismissals at 84 and 77 left India staring down the barrel with just two wickets remaining. With India still needing 33 more runs to avoid the follow-on, the task was now on the shoulders of Akash Deep and Jasprit Bumrah.
Despite being a lower-order batsman with little international experience, Akash Deep displayed incredible composure and maturity. While Bumrah held up one end, Akash Deep took the lead, pushing for singles and twos, keeping the scoreboard ticking. The pressure on the Australian bowlers grew as Akash Deep faced some of the world’s finest fast bowlers, including Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Nathan Lyon.
The Iconic Moment: Akash Deep’s Monstrous Six
The climax of the day came when Akash Deep smashed a towering six off Pat Cummins in the final over of Day 4. With India having reached 242 runs, Akash Deep then turned the tide by crunching a boundary off Cummins. But it was his subsequent six—a clean strike over mid-wicket—that stole the show. The shot was not just a testament to Akash Deep’s strength but also his calm under pressure.
The moment sent waves of joy through the Indian dressing room, with none more thrilled than Virat Kohli, who was seen applauding from the sidelines. Kohli, a master of his craft, was visibly elated by the performance of his teammate. The shot also marked a special connection, as Akash Deep was reportedly using a bat gifted to him by Kohli himself just a few months ago.
India’s Struggle: Avoiding the Follow-On
With the follow-on looming large, Akash Deep and Bumrah’s partnership was crucial in keeping India’s hopes alive. The follow-on limit was set at 246 runs, and Akash Deep’s contribution, including his 27 runs at stumps, was instrumental in helping India avoid it. Bumrah, too, played his part, holding steady at the other end with 10 not out.
At the close of play on Day 4, India were 252/9. Although they still trail by 193 runs, Akash Deep’s remarkable six has provided a much-needed morale boost, and the Indian team will look to build on this fighting spirit in the coming days.
Akash Deep’s Journey: From Domestic Cricket to the International Stage
Akash Deep, hailing from Bihar and representing Bengal in domestic cricket, has shown exceptional promise in his early international career. His knock at the Gabba stands as one of the most significant moments in his short Test career, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
His composure against the formidable Australian attack and the crucial contributions with the bat have made him a standout figure in this Test. Akash Deep’s story is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and the ability to rise to the occasion, even in the most challenging situations.
Virat Kohli’s Influence on Akash Deep’s Performance
Kohli’s influence on Akash Deep goes beyond just his batting performance. The fact that Akash Deep was using a bat gifted by Kohli added an emotional layer to his remarkable six. It’s no surprise that the young cricketer, inspired by one of India’s greatest batsmen, would produce such a memorable moment on the field.
Kohli’s presence in the dressing room and his support for Akash Deep was evident throughout the match, as he watched his teammate step up when the team needed it most. Kohli’s leadership and mentorship off the field have helped foster a culture of resilience and confidence among young cricketers like Akash Deep.
What’s Next for India?
With Day 4 coming to a close, India remains in a challenging position, trailing by 193 runs. However, the Indian team’s resilience, particularly Akash Deep’s performance, has shown that they are not ready to give up just yet. The final day promises to be another exciting chapter in this thrilling Test series, and with players like Akash Deep stepping up, India will look to make a strong fightback.
Conclusion: A Defining Moment for Akash Deep and India
Akash Deep’s stunning six off Pat Cummins at the Gabba will go down as one of the most memorable moments of the series. His performance not only helped India avoid the follow-on but also left Virat Kohli, a player known for his own power-hitting, in sheer admiration. As India prepares for Day 5, Akash Deep’s heroics have ensured that the team remains in the contest, and the excitement surrounding this young cricketer’s future is palpable.
This match is far from over, and with Akash Deep continuing to impress, India’s fight in the third Test is bound to captivate fans worldwide.
