Star Indian fast bowler Akash Deep has come forward with high praise for Indian captain Rohit Sharma, who is currently facing mounting criticism for his underwhelming performance in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. The 37-year-old batter struggled throughout the five-match Test series against Australia, managing only 31 runs in five innings.
Under Rohit’s leadership, India has now lost five of their last six Test matches, leading to increasing calls for his removal from the Test side. Despite the growing scrutiny, Akash Deep has strongly defended Rohit, calling him the best captain in the world. Akash, who made his Test debut for India in February 2024 during a match against England in Ranchi, expressed his gratitude for playing under Rohit’s leadership. “
I’ve said this before and will say it again—there’s no better captain than Rohit bhai. He’s the best leader in the world. I’m lucky to have played under him,” Akash Deep was quoted as saying by Times of India.
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Reflecting on Rohit’s leadership during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Akash highlighted how Rohit’s focus on the team’s needs over personal performance exemplifies true leadership.
“In the BGT, he played the way he always has, but luck wasn’t on his side. Rohit bhai prioritises the team over himself. His leadership inspires us and makes it easier for newcomers like me to perform. He simplifies things and is there to guide us when needed. He always supports and encourages the bowling unit, saying, ‘Tu daal, main hoon na’ (You bowl; I’ll handle the rest),” Akash Deep added.
The 28-year-old Bengal pacer also lauded Jasprit Bumrah, who delivered stellar performances in the series by taking 32 wickets in five matches. According to Akash, Bumrah is India’s “Brahmastra,” a game-changer capable of thriving in any condition.
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“Bumrah bhai is our ultimate weapon. Every era has a standout player, and this is his era for Team India. His ability to read batters and execute precise plans makes him world-class. His priority is always the team, not workload management,” Akash Deep stated.
Akash’s words underscore the immense respect Rohit and Bumrah command in the Indian dressing room, even during challenging times.
