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Akash Deep’s Stellar Performance and Morkel’s Praise
During the second Test match between India and England, Indian pacers delivered an impressive performance, particularly during the final session of the fourth day. Bowling coach Morne Morkel highlighted the efforts of pacer Akash Deep, calling him an “attacking bowler who asks a lot of questions.” One of Deep’s deliveries was especially notable, as it dismissed star batter Joe Root in a manner that Morkel described as a “dream delivery.”
The final few overs of the session saw English batters struggling against the Indian pace attack. Deep’s delivery was wider on the crease, pitched on an attacking full length, and it nipped away to beat the outside edge of Root’s bat, leaving his stumps castled. This moment could prove crucial for India, considering Root’s ability to score big runs.
Morkel expressed satisfaction with the performance of India’s pace unit, even in the absence of their key bowler, Jasprit Bumrah. He emphasized that Deep’s style suits the conditions in England, where asking questions at the stumps is essential. Morkel also noted that Deep’s return from injury and his high pace were positive signs for the team.
Key Contributions from Akash Deep
In the first innings, Akash Deep was outstanding with the new ball, taking four wickets for 88 runs. In the second innings, he claimed two wickets in 8 overs before the game ended on the fourth day. His performance has been instrumental in India’s dominance over England.
Morkel also praised Mohammed Siraj, highlighting his respect for the bowler’s dedication and effort. Siraj took six wickets in the first innings and secured England’s first wicket in the second innings. Morkel acknowledged Siraj’s intensity and willingness to push himself to the limits, although he noted that sometimes this can lead to inconsistency.
The Role of Siraj in the Team
Morkel emphasized that while wickets are important, some bowlers perform the “hard yards” and “dirty job” for the team. Siraj is one such bowler, and Morkel believes that his contributions should be appreciated despite occasional bad spells.
Regarding the pitch, Morkel described it as still a “good wicket,” with batters doing well towards the end of the day. He also mentioned the possibility of rain on the final day, which could affect the game. Morkel believes that if India can maintain their control in the first hour, they could secure crucial wickets.
England’s Strategy and Outlook
Morkel did not rule out the possibility of England going for a chase, noting that Harry Brook is a player who likes to take the game on. He described Brook as an entertainer, making the upcoming day of cricket exciting.
Match Highlights
England opted to field first in the match. After losing KL Rahul early, a 80-run partnership between Yashasvi Jaiswal (87) and Karun Nair (31) helped India gain momentum. Captain Shubman Gill formed valuable partnerships with Ravindra Jadeja (89) and Washington Sundar (42), leading India to a total of 587 runs.
In England’s first innings, India had them on the ropes with 84/5. However, a 303-run stand between Harry Brook (158) and Jamie Smith (184*) kept the match competitive. Siraj (6/70) and Akash Deep (4/88) eventually restricted England to 407 runs, giving India a 180-run lead.
India’s response in the second innings was strong, with a half-century partnership between Jaiswal (28) and KL Rahul (55). A 110-run stand between Rishabh Pant (65) and Gill, along with another epic 175-run stand between Gill and Jadeja (161), led India to declare at 427/6, setting England a daunting target of 608 runs.
England ended the fourth day at 72/3, with Harry Brook (15) and Ollie Pope (24) unbeaten.
