Who is Akash Deep? Why he Left Cricket for 3 Long Years?

Akash Deep's hard work fetched him this reward -

The 4th Test between India and England proved to be a watershed moment for bowler Akash Deep, who made his long-awaited debut at Ranchi. Akash Deep was given his debut Test cap by none other than, head coach Rahul Dravid in front of his mother. Akash Deep's experience with India A earned him a call-up to the senior national squad. However, things have not been as easy for the bowler, who had to quit cricket a few years ago to make ends meet.

Despite numerous difficulties, he didn't his passion -

Akash Deep, who hails from Sasaram in Bihar, had a long-standing desire to play cricket but was discouraged by his father. Despite not receiving the necessary support from his father, Akash travelled to Durgapur and always tried to look for work and was eventually assisted by one of his relatives.

He attended a nearby academy and began to impress many with his pace. But, before Akash could turn his talent into something significant, his father suffered a stroke and died. Akash's older brother died two months after his father did.

This circumstance caused a major issue in Akash's family, as there was no money in the household. To care for his mother, Akash had to give up cricket for three years and work to make ends meet at home. Akash attempted to change the trajectory of his life, but his love of cricket could not keep him away from it for long. He returned to Durgapur before eventually moving to Kolkata, where he initially shared a small rented room with his cousin.

IPL came to Akash's rescue -

Akash then joined the Bengal Under-23 team, making his debut in 2019. Then came Indian Premier League side Royal Challengers Bangalore, who signed him ahead of the 2022 season.
On February 23, 2024, Akash Deep became India's 313th Test cricketer.