New Delhi: India is preparing for the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, starting November 22. After winning the last two series on Australian soil, the team—led by Rohit Sharma—is now chasing a third straight victory. Because Australian pitches generally favor fast bowling, having a world-class pace battery is non-negotiable. Currently, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj are fit and active in the series against Bangladesh. Furthermore, Jay Shah, the BCCI Secretary, has confirmed that Mohammed Shami is on the right path to recovery from his 2023 World Cup injury and should be available for the trip.
Looking back at the series against England, debutant Akash Deep impressed the selectors by taking three wickets. He continued his momentum through the 2024 Tulip Cup and was subsequently called up for the Bangladesh series. His performance in the Chennai Test was a standout, where he delivered a clinical spell of 2/19 in just five overs, playing a major part in India's 1-0 lead. With the second and final Test set for this coming Friday in Kanpur, all eyes will be on him once again.
Given this form, cricket legend and former pacer Zaheer Khan believes Akash Deep is the right choice to be the third seamer in Australia. While the experienced Mohammed Shami is usually the first choice for that slot, his fitness remains a question mark. Consequently, Zaheer has thrown his weight behind the Bihar-born bowler, arguing that he has earned his place in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy squad.
Zaheer Khan shared his perspective online, stating: \"It's quite clear. When you look at the balance of the playing XI, we need three specialist seamers, and Akash Deep fits that requirement perfectly. It's only natural that he be considered as part of the squad for the Australian tour.\"
Comparing him to Siraj, who focuses on attacking the off-stump or the 'fourth stump' line, Zaheer noted that the ability to maintain a consistent length in those areas is vital for Test success. He praised Akash Deep for possessing both that technical skill and the necessary aggression. According to the veteran pacer, Akash has the raw talent and potential to succeed; giving him an opportunity in Australia would boost his confidence and help the team win.
On Wednesday, Akash Deep admitted that he hadn't felt his best during the England series. However, he noted a shift in mindset for the Chennai Test, where he focused on his game plan from the very first delivery. He explained that by consistently targeting the off-stump, he was able to pressure the batters. He also mentioned that he isn't letting the pressure of the upcoming Australia tour get to him.
Today, September 27, India and Bangladesh face off in the second Test in Kanpur. India currently holds a 1-0 lead in this 2025 World Test Championship clash after a dominant 280-run victory in Chennai, leaving Bangladesh with a steep mountain to climb.
Bangladesh is fighting to avoid a series whitewash, while a confident Indian side is looking to seal a 2-0 victory. The match begins at 9:30 am at Kanpur's Green Park Stadium, a venue that has hosted 23 Tests—resulting in 7 wins, 3 losses, and 13 draws for India. Interestingly, this is the first time these two nations will meet at this specific ground. It remains to be seen if India can maintain their home dominance and complete the sweep.