World · India Bureau
India pacer Akash Deep recalls nerve-wracking debut in front of Kohli, Rohit
Fast bowler Akash Deep has opened up about the anxiety he experienced when joining the India team, particularly when facing senior figures like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid. The cricketer revealed he struggled to deliver the customary speech required of new team members.
LSN India ·
India's pace bowler Akash Deep has recalled the overwhelming nerves he experienced during his maiden appearance in the national team setup, particularly when confronted with the presence of established stalwarts.
Deep shared that being introduced to the squad in front of senior players including Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and former coach Rahul Dravid left him visibly anxious. The bowler admitted that the pressure of the moment nearly rendered him speechless.
According to team protocol, newly selected players are required to address the squad during their induction. Deep revealed that he feared he would be unable to speak coherently during this customary ritual, given the magnitude of standing before India's cricket icons.
The pacer's candid recollection sheds light on the psychological challenges that young cricketers face when stepping into international cricket for the first time, even as their technical credentials have already secured their selection to the national side.