Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has lauded Bengal pacer Akash Deep after he retained his place in the Test squad. Ganguly feels Akash can be as quick as Mohammed Siraj and Mohammed Shami. The 26-year-old Bengal pacer retained his place ahead of Mukesh Kumar.
"Akash Deep is an outstanding young fast bowler. He runs in, bowls quick, and will bowl for long periods. I've seen him play for Bengal, taking wickets,” Ganguly said at a promotional event in Kolkata.
"He will be as quick as Siraj and Shami, hitting high 140s. He is one to watch out for," he added.
Akash’s performance in Duleep Trophy 2024 1st round
Akash was lethal in the Duleep Trophy clash for India A at M.Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru. In the first innings, he bagged four wickets including Rishabh Pant. In the second innings, he registered a five-wicket haul and helped his side bowl out India B for 184.
In the run chase, when all seemed lost, he launched a counterattack. He smashed four sixes and three fours in a 42-ball 43.
Akash’s Test debut
Akash made his Test debut against England earlier this year. He wrecked England's top order getting the wickets of Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope in Ranchi.
Ganguly doesn’t give Bangladesh a chance
Meanwhile, Ganguly doesn't feel that high-on confidence Bangladesh can beat India in India.
"Going to Pakistan and beating them is never easy, so congratulations to the (Bangladesh) players. But India will be a different kettle of fish; India, whether at home or away, are a fantastic side with a very strong batting unit,” he said.
"I don't see Bangladesh winning; India will win the series. But India must expect good and tough cricket from Bangladesh because they are coming into the series with a lot of confidence after beating Pakistan in Pakistan.”
Dayal’s maiden call-up
The two-Test series will start on September 19. Left-arm pacer Yash Dayal has received maiden Test call-up. Dayal took four wickets for India B including three in the second innings. It will be interesting to see if he gets to make his Test debut in Chennai or Kanpur.
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