Emotional Akash Deep touches mother's feet ahead of India debut

The fourth match of the ongoing red-ball series between India and England began on Friday, February 23, at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi. Ahead of the Test, the BCCI had announced that ace pacer and vice captain Jasprit Bumrah would be rested for the game, citing workload management reasons. As a result, young pacer Akash Deep received his maiden call-up and made his debut for the Rohit Sharma-led side.

Deep was presented his India cap before the toss by head coach Rahul Dravid, and that is when the seamer realized his dreams turned to reality. His mother was also present on the field during the moment, and both engaged in a heart-warming moment after he wore the cap. Deep was seen touching his mother's feet and took her blessings. They both hugged each other and shared an emotional moment.

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Akash Deep nearly strikes early on debut

Winning the toss, England's skipper Ben Stokes invited India to bowl first. Mohammed Siraj, who is leading India's pace attack, opened the bowling, while Akash Deep took charge from the other end. In just the second over he bowled, the seam movement and early morning conditions helped the pacer, as he rattled the timber of Zak Crawley, as the ball went past the bat-pad gap. Deep's excitement for his maiden wicket didn't last long, as the siren which went off shortly suggested that the bowler had overstepped, and thus, the ball was adjudged as a no ball.

In the first 5 overs, the English batters started off quite sedately, as the ball assisted the pace duo well. However, once the ball gets older, the batters will be hoping to unleash their 'Bazball' style of play. Thus, it will be interesting to see if Crawley and Ben Duckett are able to see off the first session on Day 1, or whether the Indians will ensure being on top by striking with a wicket or two.