India’s pacer Akash Deep produced an unexpected and spirited fightback with the bat, pulling his team out of trouble in the ongoing third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 at the Gabba in Brisbane. In a tense moment where Australia looked certain to enforce the follow-on after Ravindra Jadeja’s dismissal, Akash Deep’s heroics turned the game on its head.
The lower-order batter joined forces with Jasprit Bumrah when India’s chances looked bleak. The duo showed immense grit and determination, putting up a partnership that frustrated the Australian attack. Akash Deep, in particular, displayed remarkable composure, defying expectations with his solid defence and calculated shot selection.
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Together, they ticked the scoreboard along, slowly chipping away at the deficit and ensuring India avoided the follow-on—a crucial psychological boost for the visitors. The highlight of Akash Deep’s memorable innings came when he smashed a stunning six off Australia’s skipper Pat Cummins.
Akash Deep makes sure India avoid the follow-on and then smashes Pat Cummins into the second level!#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/HIu86M7BNW
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 17, 2024
— Sau Al’Nassr (@bimarsangakkara) December 17, 2024
Pat Cummins bowled a full delivery aimed at off-stump, but Akash Deep confidently stepped forward, swung his bat cleanly, and sent the ball soaring over deep mid-wicket. The strike was not just audacious but perfectly executed, leaving the Australian captain momentarily stunned.
— Drizzyat12Kennyat8 (@45kennyat7PM) December 17, 2024
The Indian dressing room erupted with joy at the audacious hit. Virat Kohli, seated alongside head coach Gautam Gambhir and other teammates, was visibly awestruck, unable to hide his delight. The celebrations were captured on camera, with the video of the dressing room’s reaction quickly going viral across social media.
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Akash Deep’s resilient effort not only kept India in the game but also lifted the team’s morale during a critical phase. His ability to stand firm under pressure and deliver such a powerful statement with the bat further underscored the growing depth and fighting spirit of India’s Test squad.
