Akash Deep stepped into India’s playing XI in place of Jasprit Bumrah for the Edgbaston Test, and he made an immediate impact. On Day 2 of the ongoing second Test against England, Irfan Pathan praised the young pacer’s fiery spell, which saw him dismantle the top order shortly after India wrapped up their innings.
India, led by Shubman Gill, were bowled out for a commanding total of 587 after tea on Day 2. Gill, captaining the Test side for just the third time, delivered a monumental performance that exceeded all expectations. Batting at No. 4, he crafted a stunning 269-run knock, becoming a nightmare for the English bowlers.
Irfan Pathan: With that innings, Gill not only stamped his authority but also etched his name in the record books by surpassing Virat Kohli’s highest individual Test score as captain at Edgbaston — setting a new benchmark for Indian leaders in the format.
His masterclass included 30 boundaries and three sixes, and he forged two vital partnerships: 203 runs with Ravindra Jadeja (89) and 144 with Washington Sundar (42). Though he seemed destined for a triple century, Gill fell for 269, ending one of the most memorable innings by an Indian captain on English soil.
Akash Deep Strikes Early, Dismisses Duckett and Pope; Irfan Pathan Reacts with Praise
Akash Deep made an immediate impact with the ball, shaking up England’s top order after a slightly expensive start. Although he conceded 11 runs in his opening over, he came back firing in his second, striking twice in quick succession during the third over of England’s innings.
He first removed Ben Duckett for a five-ball duck. Duckett attempted an aggressive cut shot off a wide delivery but only managed to edge it to Shubman Gill at third slip, who took a sharp catch.
Irfan Pathan: On the very next ball, Akash Deep trapped England’s vice-captain Ollie Pope with a delivery that squared him up. The edge flew to Karun Nair in the slips, who took a comfortable catch, leaving England stunned.
Former Indian pacer Irfan Pathan, who had earlier vouched for Akash Deep’s selection in case Jasprit Bumrah was rested, took to social media to share his delight. Comparing Akash’s rhythm and bowling style to Mohammed Shami, Pathan posted on X:
Why i was backing Akashdeep in absence of Bumrah? Brilliant bowling 👏
— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) July 3, 2025
