IND vs ENG: Player Analysis: How did Akashdeep Dominate with his Opening Spell?

On the first day of the fourth Test between India and England in Ranchi, fast bowler Akash Deep, making his Test debut, stole the limelight with a sensational opening spell. Ben Stokes, the England captain, chose to bat after winning the toss, but Akash Deep’s impactful performance in the first hour put the visitors on the back foot. The 27-year-old pacer, known for hitting the deck hard, showcased excellent seam movement, troubling the English batters.

He patiently waited for his moment, eventually dismissing Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, and Zak Crawley in quick succession, finishing the session with impressive figures of 3/24. Despite early struggles, England managed to recover in the later part of the day, largely due to the resilience shown by Joe Root and Ben Foakes. The duo stitched together an impressive 113-run partnership for the eighth wicket, providing England with a much-needed revival.

Joe Root, who had been struggling for form in the series, found his rhythm and remained unbeaten on a well-crafted 106 runs at the end of the day’s play. Alongside Root, Ollie Robinson contributed with an unbeaten 31 runs. England concluded the day at 302 for 7, showcasing a commendable fightback after facing early setbacks.

See Also: IND vs ENG: Player Analysis: What Factors Contributed to Joe Root’s Struggles in the Series?

Akashdeep’s Top-Notch Opening Spell Decoded

Akash Deep made a stunning debut for India, showcasing remarkable control and skill with the ball. Right from his first delivery, he displayed excellent line and length, hitting a good length with 59% of his deliveries in the initial spell. Additionally, he mixed it up well, incorporating 31% short-pitched deliveries to keep the English batters on their toes.

Akash Deep’s maiden wicket, that of Duckett, was a testament to his bowling skills. He enticed the batter to nick the ball, utilizing subtle movement after pitching. Akash Deep continued his impressive debut spell by dismissing Ollie Pope in the same over. Pope, attempting to step out, was confounded by an incoming delivery that struck him on the knee roll.

Upon review, he was given out LBW. The following delivery saw Joe Root facing a ball that nipped back in, prompting India to take another review, which revealed it was outside the off-stump. Akash Deep then returned in the next over to claim the wicket of Zak Crawley in a similar fashion, with Akash Deep hitting the top of the off-stump to claim his third wicket in quick succession.

While Akash Deep’s initial burst was exceptional, he faced challenges in the later stages, evident in a few no-balls and some loose deliveries. Despite this, his remarkable debut spell, marked by genuine pace, movement, and strategic variations, provided a glimpse into his potential as a potent fast bowler. The debutant’s ability to trouble seasoned batters on a Test debut goes well for India’s pace bowling resources, adding depth to the team’s arsenal.

In conclusion, Akash Deep’s impactful debut spell provided India with a strong start, claiming crucial wickets and putting England under pressure. However, Joe Root’s resilient century, coupled with Ben Foakes’ support, led England to a commendable recovery.

The partnership between Root and Foakes showcased England’s fighting spirit, ensuring a competitive total by the end of the day. As the Test match in Ranchi unfolds, both teams have set the stage for a closely contested battle, highlighting the unpredictability and excitement of Test cricket.