I want to play across all formats, says Akash Deep

Indian fast bowler Akash Deep said he wants to play across all formats for the team. Deep has thus far played 10 Test matches for India but he is yet to make his ODI and T20I debut. The Bengal fast bowler recently did a decent job on the England tour.

Deep scalped 13 wickets in three Test matches against England at an average of 36.46. The right-arm pacer was India’s hero in the second Test match at Edbaston, picking 10 wickets in the game. Deep had returned with match figures of 10-187 and had done a terrific job.

Furthermore, he scored an enterprising knock of 66 runs off just 94 balls in the second innings at the Kennington Oval, London and helped India strengthen their lead. Deep said he wants to keep contributing with the bat but his primary job is to win matches with his bowling.

“If the team needs my batting, I will bat. My dream is to bring my best version and improve myself so that I can play across formats. But I’m not a selector,” Akash said while speaking to the media on the sidelines of Cricket Association of Bengal’s annual awards function.

“The 66 I scored in the second innings at The Oval was also important, but as a bowler, I would always like to win the match with my bowling,” Akash added.

Deep missed the Duleep Trophy match for East Zone and revealed his body needed rest after the England tour.

“There was no injury, just an impact. I will start bowling tomorrow. I’m feeling good. I have been playing constantly for six months, so my body needed a bit of rest,” Akash said.

“When you go to England or Australia, it’s tough to play five matches. You have to be mentally and physically stronger,” Akash added.

Deep would look to be at his best in the home season against the West Indies and South Africa.