Mohammed Shami & Akash Deep. (Photo Source: X/Twitter)
Indian pacer, Akash Deep, has made a firm start to his international career with Test cricket. Former Indian fast bowler Zaheer Khan believes that Mohammed Shami could be the perfect role model for the young pacer.
Both Shami and Deep share a similar approach to their bowling, focusing on the basic fundamentals. Khan spoke about these similarities and said that the Bengal pacer should look up to his senior teammate to find long-term success.
“He [Akash Deep] also looks to keep things straight and attack the stumps. Mohammed Shami also has a similar approach. Shami can be a good role model for Akash Deep. [Look at the] way Shami has achieved success in international cricket. Like Shami, Akash Deep also likes to make good use of the seam,” Zaheer told Cricbuzz.
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If Akash Deep chats with other bowlers, he can add variety to his bowling: Zaheer Khan
The 27-year-old’s recent performances have proved his potential as a fast bowler. In the ongoing second Test against Bangladesh in Kanpur, he claimed two crucial wickets on an overcast first day, finishing with figures of 2/34 from 10 overs. The Bengal pacer had a memorable debut against England in Ranchi earlier this year, where he bagged three wickets in the first innings.
Khan emphasized the importance of Deep’s consistent seam position and his ability to stick to the basics. The former Indian pacer believes that following Shami can accelerate his growth as an international bowler. Khan also believes that engaging with other bowlers could help Deep add variety to his skills sooner rather than later.
“When you attack the stumps and bowl good lengths, that will definitely help your cause. This is the way Shami has achieved his success. If Akash Deep is looking for a role model, there can be no one better than him. His seam position is always talked about. Akash Deep has consistency, but if he chats with other bowlers, he can add variety to his bowling a lot sooner,” added Zaheer.
Meanwhile, Shami continues his recovery from injury, and might return during the New Zealand series and potentially the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia.