Virat Kohli's Gifted Bat Helped Aakash Deep Shine in Brisbane Test
New Delhi – When Indian pacer Aakash Deep was asked by Virat Kohli if he wanted his bat, the shy bowler could only respond, "Who wouldn’t, bhaiya?" That very bat played a key role in Aakash Deep’s gritty 31-run innings during the Brisbane Test, helping India avoid a follow-on in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in Australia. Despite the team losing the series 1-3, the performance was a memorable one for the Bengal pacer.
The Story Behind Kohli’s Bat
Speaking to PTI in an exclusive interview, Aakash Deep revealed, "Yes, it was Virat bhaiya’s bat with the MRF logo—everyone knows that." The young bowler, who also represents Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) alongside Kohli in the IPL, admitted he lacked the courage to ask for the bat directly.
He shared, "Bhaiya asked me himself if I needed a bat. I told him, ‘Of course, bhaiya, who wouldn’t want your bat?’ Then he handed it to me."
Grit and Determination in Brisbane
In the drawn Brisbane Test, Aakash Deep partnered with Jasprit Bumrah for a crucial last-wicket stand of 47 runs. Reflecting on that innings, the pacer, who hails from Sasaram, said, "That day, I was determined not to get out, no matter how many blows I took. I was focused on staying at the crease for as long as possible. Avoiding the follow-on wasn’t on my mind—it was about staying there and contributing."
Bowling Lessons Down Under
Aakash Deep played two Tests in the series, delivering 87.5 overs and claiming five wickets. Despite some unlucky moments with dropped catches off his bowling, he impressed with his consistency.
"Rohit bhaiya had immense faith in me. He often said, ‘I feel you can take a wicket with every ball.’ Even when I wasn’t picking wickets, my role was to restrict the run flow," he said.
Bowling alongside Jasprit Bumrah was a learning experience. "Bumrah made things easier for me. Watching him and learning from his advice helped me grow as a bowler," Aakash Deep added.
Adapting to Australian Conditions
Having primarily played in India before, Aakash Deep acknowledged the challenge and opportunity of bowling on Australian pitches. "In India, spinners often dominate, and there’s less pressure on pacers. But abroad, you need to adapt your bowling to the pitch and conditions. Bowling long spells in Australia helped me understand my craft better and become a more refined bowler," he said.
Future Aspirations
Aakash Deep is eager to build on his experiences and contribute more to the Indian team. With guidance from veterans like Kohli and Bumrah, the pacer is confident in his ability to excel on the international stage.
“Virat bhaiya’s belief in me and the opportunities I got in Australia have been invaluable,” he concluded.
