Only a few months into his new post-retirement life, cricket games have slowly started morphing into hazy memories for Manoj Tiwary. Yet, one match remains crystal clear in his recollection: the revenge Ranji Trophy semifinal against Madhya Pradesh in February last year. “Akash Deep ne khol diya tha Rajat Patidar ko,” he recalls with pride, referencing how the pacer’s five-wicket haul helped Bengal topple the reigning champions to secure a spot in the final.
Tiwary believes it is this relentless spirit and skill that has made Akash Deep an international-level bowler. Hailing from a small town in Uttar Pradesh, Akash has journeyed from the local lanes of Varanasi to the grand international cricket stages. Growing up, his first notion of international cricket was tied to Green Park, Kanpur. As fate would have it, he finally set foot in Green Park as an India cricketer with a remarkable realization: the lush green venue he had imagined was more teal than green.
India’s team management is considering fielding an additional spinner for the upcoming Test in Kanpur, potentially leaving a fast bowler like Akash on the bench. Such decisions are tough on any young, in-form fast bowler eager to climb the ranks in a competitive environment. However, Akash approaches the challenge with an unusual calm and clarity, understanding his role precisely. “No matter how the wicket is, my job is to bowl in the right areas. Even if the pitch does not favor fast bowlers, I have to take wickets by adapting my strategies accordingly,” he explains.
In a brief chat mere days before the game, Akash emphasized simplicity—a term often tossed around yet seldom practiced in professional sports. Tiwary insists this approach is central to Akash’s success, even likening him to a ‘blindfolded horse’—meticulously focused and obedient. “Whenever we play outside Kolkata, on batter-friendly or spin-friendly wickets, you want a bowler who can maintain pace and precision. Akash is that bowler who can bend his back and put in the hard yards,” elaborates Tiwary.
Akash’s effective bowling was evident in Chennai, where helpful conditions allowed him to utilize his skills from round the wicket against the top-order left-handers. “There was some assistance in the first innings,” Akash mentions. “Bowling round the wicket is comfortable for me, and it worked this time.
. The ball was swinging, so sticking to simple plans created opportunities.”
Despite his brief career, Akash has already carved out a niche for himself alongside seasoned campaigners like Jasprit Bumrah, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Ravindra Jadeja. Deducing the importance of his role has been instrumental in his transition. “Playing for India is a dream for any child and a matter of immense pride, but there’s also a responsibility because you’re filling the shoes of those who’ve contributed a lot,” he acknowledges, headlining the support from the Indian captain Rohit Sharma.
Rohit’s simplistic mentorship further eased Akash’s insecurities about international pressure. “Initially, I was apprehensive about the expectations and pressure of playing for India. But (Rohit) bhaiya made everything seem so effortless, making me feel comfortable and at ease,” Akash praises his captain, recounting how the simplicity Rohit instilled helped settle his nerves.
Tiwary highlights that Akash’s bowling arsenal offers more than just pace—it’s his consistent accuracy that stands out. “Many domestic bowlers possess raw pace but lack consistency. Akash’s forte is his impeccable line and length,” he elucidates, praising Akash’s continual evolution and the determination that has defined his career.
Akash’s willingness to give his all, irrespective of the format—be it the Ranji Trophy or the IPL—sets him apart. “Whenever he returns to domestic cricket, he puts in 100 percent effort, unlike many who might ease off after international exposure. His grounding and hardworking nature are commendable,” Tiwary notes.
His inclusion in the Chennai Test arose from India’s decision to field three seamers, with Mohammed Shami sidelined due to injury. Making the most of this opportunity, Akash has now set his sights on cementing his place in the team. While the Green Park pitch may not offer much to excite a fast bowler, if given the chance, Akash is ready to raise his hand and seize every opportunity presented to him.
Akash’s journey from the bylanes of Varanasi to the heights of international cricket is a testament to his dedication and resilience, embodying the spirit of simplicity and perseverance that modern-day cricket so often speaks about yet rarely embodies. His story is not just one of talent but of tireless passion and a grounded approach to the sport.