BGT 2024-25: ‘Who wouldn’t want his bat?’, Akashdeep reveals gift from Virat Kohli
XtraTime Web Desk: India pacer Akash Deep has shared the fascinating story of how he came into possession of one of Virat Kohli's signature bats, which played a pivotal role during the Gabba Test in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Akash Deep’s vital knock of 31 runs helped India avoid the follow-on, a crucial moment that ultimately enabled the team to draw the game, with the weather playing its part as well.
The pacer initially received Kohli's bat during the home Test series against Bangladesh, where he had previously delivered an entertaining cameo in Kanpur. Speaking to PTI, Akash Deep recalled the unique circumstances under which Kohli offered him the bat, revealing how the star cricketer approached him directly with the generous gesture.
"Yes, that was Virat bhaiya's bat, the one with MRF logo, everyone knows," Akash Deep shared.
"Bhaiyya (Kohli) ne khud mujhse pucha 'Tumko bat chahiye?' (Virat bhaiyya asked me, do you need a bat?)."
"Maine bola 'Haan bhaiyya, aapka bat kaun nahi lena chahega duniya mein?' (I said, yes. Who wouldn't want your bat.) Then he presented it to me," he added.
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The young bowler admitted to feeling hesitant about asking Kohli for a bat, despite sharing a camaraderie as teammates at Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Akash Deep explained that he did not want to disturb the star batter, especially during match preparations when Kohli is focused on his game.
"I have been there with bhaiyya (Kohli) for some time now (they are teammates in Royal Challengers Bengaluru). But you always have that thing at the back of your mind, whether it is the right thing to ask for a bat from someone of Virat bhaiyya's stature."
"Especially during match time, when he is focussed and in his zone, you don't want to disturb him but bhaiyya, on his own, gave me the bat," Akash Deep revealed.
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While India lost the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 1-3, Akash Deep’s contribution in the Gabba Test remains a notable moment, even though he didn’t feature in the final match in Sydney.
