Akash Deep on what he learned from Jasprit Bumrah: ‘God made him different’

Young India fast bowler Akash Deep has heaped praises on Jasprit Bumrah, calling him God’s special child. Bumrah, in particular, has been exceptional with the ball since his return to international cricket after a back injury in August 2023.

He recently completed 400 wickets in international cricket competitions When he took five wickets in two innings in the first Test against Bangladesh at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Akash Deep recently spoke about what he has learnt from Bumrah, stating how the Indian pacer helps him create a mindset while bowling to a particular batsman.

“I talk to him regularly and watch his bowling. Woh bilkul alag hain; bhagwan ne unhe alag hi banaya hai (He is completely different, God has created him differently). I take a lot of cues from him and learn a lot. I have spoken to him about ‘mentality’ and once asked him about the mindset while bowling to a particular batsman. He gave me valuable tips and answers to my questions,” Akash told Times of India.

Akash went on to describe Bumrah as a ‘talented bowler’ and said that following in his footsteps would be a very challenging task.

“He is such a knowledgeable person and that reflects in his bowling. His ability to read the batsman before he bowls is incredible. He is a talented bowler and it is not easy to follow in his footsteps,” he added.

Bumrah’s incredible performance in 2024

Following his return to international cricket, Bumrah became the fourth-highest wicket-taker in the 2023 ODI World Cup with 20 wickets, and was later promoted to number one in the Test bowling rankings in February 2024.

He recently played a key role in India’s triumphant campaign at the T20 World Cup 2024, taking 15 wickets in eight matches at a record-breaking economy rate of 4.17. For his performance, he was awarded the Player of the Tournament award at the T20 festivities.

With a busy Test season ahead of us, Bumrah to play a key role once again in the crucial Border Gavaskar Trophy for India Australia is also on the horizon.