Akash Deep Singh Shines on Debut, England in Early Trouble
Hailing from Bihar and representing Bengal in senior cricket, Akash Deep Singh made a dream debut for India against England, claiming three wickets despite a shaky start. The match is still underway, and the young pacer has a golden opportunity to weave a more captivating and unforgettable debut narrative.
Akashdeep’s day began with a hiccup. Although he bowled with discipline, his first prized wicket was heartbreakingly nullified by a no-ball. However, he didn’t let disappointment linger, bouncing back with a double-wicket maiden in his next over.
He dismissed Ben Duckett with a beautifully angled away delivery, followed by Ollie Pope who was unlucky to be adjudged LBW on a ball tracking replay, despite it pitching outside off stump.
As the saying goes, lightning can strike twice. When Akash Deep trapped Zak Crawley in his third over, another no-ball seemed to dampen his spirits. But fate had other plans, as he dismissed Crawley in identical fashion in the final over of his first spell.
England find themselves in a precarious position. Ben Stokes’ decision to bat first backfired spectacularly, with the visitors already five wickets down in the first session. Their only ray of hope rests on Joe Root, whose presence at the crease offers some solace.
Despite the early setback, the slow pitch offers England a chance to salvage the innings. They need to chase a minimum of 300 runs to capitalize on the advantage of batting first, but their current situation casts doubt on their ability to stretch the day.
The absence of Jasprit Bumrah was supposed to provide England a breather, but his replacement, Akash Deep Singh, has already made a significant impact. With his impressive bowling display, he has sent shivers down the English spine, and the rest of the match promises an enthralling contest.