India faces a critical decision regarding its pace bowling combination for the do-or-die Test against England, with concerns mounting over Akash Deep’s form and fitness.
From Hero to Question Mark: Akash Deep’s Journey
Just weeks ago, after a stellar performance at Edgbaston, Akash Deep was hailed as the ideal third pacer India had long sought overseas. His 10 wickets helped level the series, and the pace department, including a maturing Mohammed Siraj, seemed to be thriving.
However, the landscape has dramatically shifted. England now leads the five-Test series 2-1, making the upcoming match at Manchester a must-win. India’s pace attack, once celebrated, is now under intense scrutiny.
The Siraj Dilemma and Akash Deep’s Dip
Mohammed Siraj presents a complex challenge for the team management. Having bowled 109 overs, he’s been the busiest bowler in the series. While resting him seems logical to prevent injury, he’s a crucial, all-format player whose absence would be deeply felt in such a high-stakes game.
Then there’s Akash Deep. After his Edgbaston heroics, his performance at Lord’s seemed off. He struggled to find his rhythm and hit the right areas, possibly due to the ground’s unique dimensions or a lingering injury.
Injury Concerns and On-Field Struggles
Akash Deep has a history of injuries, having been sidelined in the 2024 Border-Gavaskar Trophy and the 2025 IPL season. At Lord’s, he was seen grimacing and holding his waist, even leaving the field for treatment.
Despite returning, he didn’t bowl again that day. His performance in the first innings was also concerning, bowling 23 wicketless overs and being the most expensive Indian bowler. In the second innings, he bowled only eight overs, picking up a single wicket.
Observations from Practice
Recent observations at a net session further fuel worries about Akash Deep’s fitness. He maintained a low-key presence, stretching on the ground while teammates engaged in warm-up drills. An avid footballer, he opted out of a team game that combines football and volleyball.
Later in the session, he was seen doing slow jogs with the team physio, suggesting he might still be managing discomfort. Neither Akash Deep, Siraj, nor Jasprit Bumrah bowled in the nets that day, adding to the speculation.
Who Steps Up? Potential Replacements
Should Akash Deep miss the Manchester Test, India faces a tough choice. Prasidh Krishna has had an inconsistent series, and left-arm seamer Arshdeep Singh, despite offering variety, is yet to debut in Tests. Introducing a debutant in a do-or-die match is a significant gamble.
All-rounder Shardul Thakur, who played the opening Test, is also an option. Another all-rounder, Nitish Reddy, got to bowl with the new ball at Lord’s and impressed. The team management’s preference for a long batting line-up means playing both Shardul and Reddy might even be considered.
- Akash Deep’s form declined sharply after his strong showing at Edgbaston.
- Concerns persist over Akash Deep’s fitness, with observations from practice sessions indicating discomfort.
- Mohammed Siraj’s high workload presents a dilemma for the team management.
- India must choose carefully from a pool of pacers, none of whom are obvious shoo-ins, for the crucial Manchester Test.
The stakes couldn’t be higher, and India’s decision on its pace combination will be pivotal in their quest to save the series.