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Former India left-arm pacer Zaheer Khan reckons that seasoned fast bowler Mohammed Shami can be the perfect role model for Akash Deep. Zaheer pointed out that, much like Shami, Akash Deep also maintains an impressive seam position and believes in doing the basics right.
Shami has been out of action from international cricket due to injury following the 2023 ODI World Cup. In his absence, Akash Deep has played a few Test matches, making a genuine impact. The right-arm pacer picked up two wickets on a curtailed Day 1 of the second Test against Bangladesh in Kanpur on Friday, September 27.
Speaking after the end of the day's play, Zaheer drew some parallels between Akash Deep and Shami's bowling style. He also explained why Akash Deep can look up to Shami as a mentor. Speaking to Cricbuzz, he said:
"He [Akash Deep] also looks to keep things straight and attack the stumps. Mohammed Shami also has a similar approach. Shami can be a good role model for Akash Deep. [Look at the] way Shami has achieved success in international cricket. Like Shami, Akash Deep also likes to make good use of the seam.
"When you attack the stumps and bowl good lengths, that will definitely help your cause. This is the way Shami has achieved his success. If Akash Deep is looking for a role model, there can be no one better than him. His seam position is always talked about. Akash Deep has consistency, but if he chats with other bowlers, he can add variety in his bowling a lot sooner," the former India pacer added.
While only 35 overs were possible on Day 1 of the second India vs Bangladesh Test in Kanpur, Akash Deep returned with figures of 2-34 from 10 overs. The right-arm pacer had Zakir Hasan (0) caught in the slip cordon and trapped Shadman Islam (24) leg before with one that came in from around the wicket.
Akash Deep has made a bright start to his Test career
Playing only his third Test, the 27-year-old has so far claimed seven wickets at an average of 22.28. The Bengal pacer made his Test debut against England in Ranchi in February this year. He registered figures of 3-83 from 19 overs in the first innings, dismissing Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope and Zak Crawley.
The pacer was also picked in the playing XI for the first Test against Bangladesh at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. He claimed 2-19 in five overs in the first innings, getting the scalps of Zakir Hasan and Mominul Haque.
