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Xtra Time Web Desk: India pacer Akash Deep made a remarkable overseas debut in the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at Brisbane, earning praise for his impressive bowling performance. Despite playing just six Test matches since his debut against England in 2024, the Bengal seamer showcased his skills with the new ball, picking up three wickets in his first outing in Australia.

Akash’s disciplined performance drew appreciation from Australian batting star Steve Smith, who hailed the pacer’s ability to generate movement and maintain a tight length. "I thought Akash bowled really nicely, particularly that first spell. He was getting the ball to move with pretty significant movement. He bowled a really good length. He's a nice bowler. It was the first time I've actually faced him. He has got some skill there for sure," Smith said at Gabba.

Addressing the media after a net session in Melbourne, Akash credited Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli for guiding young pacers, including Harshit Rana, and ensuring they looked prepared for the Australian conditions.

"This is my first time in Australia. I trust Jasprit Bumrah, and the little inputs that he gives help a lot. The things that he says are not complicated and that clarity helps a lot," Akash said, adding that advice from senior players boosted the team’s confidence.

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While Akash impressed with his skills, he went wicketless in a few spells. However, the pacer remained unfazed, focusing on process over results. "As a cricketer, we only have process, the result is not in our hand. What I try to do is stick to my discipline, to my lines and lengths and hope that it works out," he said.

Akash also downplayed concerns over Australia’s squad changes, highlighting the team’s focus on early breakthroughs. "Our mindset is to exploit the new ball. They are facing issues with the new ball. The plan is to attack in the first 30 overs," he added.

Addressing injury concerns after knocks to Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, and himself during practice, Akash dismissed worries. "We keep getting hit in the nets. That is fine. I think that the practice pitch was for white-ball, so it was keeping a little low. There is no concern with Rohit Sharma," he clarified.

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Looking ahead to the Boxing Day Test at the MCG, Akash stated that the series is “50-50”, and the team is drawing confidence from their resilience at Brisbane.

With India level 1-1 in the series, Akash Deep’s performance will be pivotal as the team heads into the Boxing Day Test at the MCG.