Akash Deep Bat and Ball Brilliance Turns Heads in Oval Test
The ongoing Test match between India and England at The Oval took an unexpected twist when Akash Deep, sent in as a nightwatchman, played the innings of his life, smashing 66 runs from 94 deliveries. His fluent strokeplay and calm presence under pressure helped India extend their second-innings lead and tilt the match in their favour. What made the knock more remarkable was that it came from a player known primarily for his bowling — not batting.
Maiden fifty on the biggest stage
Coming in late on Day 2, Akash Deep took guard with one job — survive the evening. But by Day 3, he had transformed into a run-machine, stroking 12 boundaries and looking like a seasoned batter. His 66-run innings marked his maiden Test fifty, a huge personal milestone and a key turning point in the game. He eventually fell to Jamie Overton, but not before he had completed a match-defining partnership.
100-run partnership with Jaiswal
Akash Deep stitched together a 107-run stand with opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, who himself struck a commanding 118 runs. The pair frustrated England’s bowlers and batted with intent, turning India’s modest lead into a threatening total. Their partnership ensured that India closed in on a position of dominance by the time the second session of Day 3 ended.
More than just a bowling option
This knock puts Akash Deep in a unique bracket among Indian players who’ve batted in England. He now holds more 50-plus scores in England than seasoned names like Shikhar Dhawan, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Gautam Gambhir, all of whom never managed a Test fifty in English conditions despite several attempts. It’s a remarkable feat for a fast bowler batting at the lower end of the order.
Earlier impact with the ball
Before shining with the bat, Akash Deep had already made a strong impact in the match. In England’s first innings, he bowled with discipline and aggression, picking up four wickets and contributing significantly to India’s efforts with the ball. His combined performance with both bat and ball makes him one of the standout players of the match so far.
Match situation at a glance
As the teams headed into the final session of Day 3, India had moved past 300 in their second innings, stretching their lead to nearly 280 runs. With England on the back foot, India will now aim to add quick runs and give their bowlers enough time to bowl out the hosts on a pitch that is starting to show uneven bounce and turn.
Dressing room delight
Akash Deep’s efforts didn’t go unnoticed in the Indian camp. His teammates celebrated his milestone warmly, with smiles all around the dugout as he raised his bat. From a role player to a game-changer, he’s provided India with both inspiration and breathing space in a tightly contested Test series.
Conclusion
Akash Deep’s incredible innings has reshaped the narrative of this Test. Sent in simply to protect the top order, he emerged as one of India’s most reliable performers at The Oval. His cool head under pressure, attacking approach, and valuable runs have not only lifted the team but have also added depth to India’s lower order resilience. With two full days left, the pressure now sits firmly on England to find answers — both with the bat and in their plans for an Indian team that looks firmly in control.
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