BIRMINGHAM — From the dusty fields of Bihar to the lush greens of England, Akash Deep’s journey to the Indian Test team is a tale of resilience, tragedy, and unyielding determination. The 27-year-old seamer, who made his Test debut against England in 2024, has overcome personal loss and financial hardship to carve his name into cricketing history.
Humble Beginnings in Bihar
Born in Sasaram, Bihar, Akash Deep grew up in a region where cricket infrastructure was nearly non-existent. His father, Ramji Singh, a schoolteacher, and his mother, Lakhpati Devi, a homemaker, struggled to make ends meet. "We didn’t even have proper cricket grounds. We played on whatever open space we could find," Akash once recalled in an interview. Despite the challenges, his passion for the game was undeniable. He would often skip school to practice, using makeshift equipment and bowling for hours under the scorching sun.
His early years were marked by relentless effort and sacrifice. With no formal coaching, he honed his skills through sheer repetition. "I knew I had to work twice as hard as anyone else because I didn’t have the resources others did," he said. His breakthrough came when he moved to Durgapur, West Bengal, to pursue cricket more seriously, leaving behind his family and the only life he had known.
Tragedy Strikes: A Turning Point
In 2015, Akash Deep’s world was shattered when his father passed away unexpectedly. The loss was devastating, both emotionally and financially. "I felt like giving up. My father was my biggest supporter, and suddenly, I was alone," he confessed. But instead of succumbing to grief, he channeled his pain into his cricket. He took up odd jobs to support his family while continuing to train, often bowling with a heavy heart but an unbroken spirit.
The following years were a grind. He played club cricket in Kolkata, earning meager sums, and faced countless rejections. But his perseverance paid off when he was picked by Bengal in the Ranji Trophy. His performances there caught the eye of IPL scouts, and in 2022, he was signed by Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). "That was the moment I realized my struggles weren’t in vain," he said.
The Breakthrough: Test Debut for India
Akash Deep’s Test debut in Birmingham was the culmination of years of toil. Handed the cap by Rahul Dravid, he became the latest in a long line of Indian fast bowlers to rise from obscurity to international acclaim. His first spell was electric, dismissing England’s top order with his pace and movement. "I kept thinking about my father. I wish he could have seen this," he said after the match, fighting back tears.
His journey resonates with many in India, where cricket is often a lifeline for those from underprivileged backgrounds. Key milestones in his career include:
- 2019: Makes Ranji Trophy debut for Bengal
- 2022: Signs with RCB in the IPL
- 2024: Earns Test cap for India against England
Inspiration for Aspiring Cricketers
Akash Deep’s story is more than just a sporting triumph; it’s a testament to the power of resilience. "I want every kid from a small town to know that dreams do come true if you’re willing to fight for them," he often says. His rise has inspired countless young cricketers in Bihar and beyond, proving that talent and hard work can overcome even the toughest circumstances.
Former India captain Sourav Ganguly, now a key figure in Indian cricket administration, praised Akash’s journey: "What he’s achieved is remarkable. It shows the depth of talent in our country and the importance of giving opportunities to players from non-traditional cricketing regions."
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future
With his Test career off to a flying start, Akash Deep is poised to become a mainstay in India’s bowling attack. His ability to swing the ball at pace and his never-say-die attitude make him a valuable asset, especially in overseas conditions. "I’m just getting started. There’s so much more I want to achieve," he said with a determined smile.
His story is a reminder that greatness often emerges from adversity. From the loss of his father to the struggles of making it in professional cricket, Akash Deep’s journey is a beacon of hope for anyone facing seemingly insurmountable odds. As he continues to make his mark on the international stage, one thing is certain: his father would be proud.