Rahul Dravid (L) and Akash Deep© X (formerly Twitter)
It was a huge moment for fast bowler Akash Deep as he made his debut for the Indian cricket team in the fourth Test match against England in Ranchi on Friday. He was preferred over his Bengal teammate Mukesh Kumar as Mohammed Siraj‘s partner with the new ball. The moment was made extra special by the attendance of his mother at the venue as head coach Rahul Dravid handed the Test cap to Akash Deep. Before giving the cap, Dravid made an emotional speech which captured the youngster’s journey perfectly and congratulated him on fulfilling his dream.
“Akash, your journey started from a place named Baddi, which is roughly 200 km from here. You have faced a lot of hardships in this journey. You have worked hard. You have seen a lots of ups and downs,” Dravid said in the video posted by BCCI on social media.
“You, on your own, moved from Baddi to Delhi to play cricket. You were inspired by the 2007 T20 World Cup win. You stayed alone in Delhi and put in the efforts. Then you moved to Kolkata from Delhi.”
“You played domestic cricket and put up impressive performances. Your journey has taken you to Ranchi, which is 200km closer to your village and you are going to get your India cap here today.”
“It is a special feeling for you as your mother is also here along with some of your family members. It is unfortunate that your father and elder brother are no more. But we are sure that they are blessing you from wherever they are.”
“Our entire team is wishing you. Please enjoy this moment and this match. You have worked hard to reach here this has been your dream. We are happy that we are here with you to fulfill this dream. Enjoy this five days and your entire career. With great joy, I present to you India Test Cap No, 313.”
Akash Deep impressed on his debut as he ended up taking three wickets on Day 1.
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