Sourav Ganguly Highlights Akash Deep as Key Player for India's Test Series Against Bangladesh

Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly has named fast bowler Akash Deep as a player to watch ahead of India’s Test series against Bangladesh starting September 19. The BCCI has included Deep and debutant Yash Dayal in the squad, with the series kicking off in Chennai followed by a match in Kanpur.

Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly has spotlighted fast bowler Akash Deep as a standout player for the upcoming two-match Test series against Bangladesh, starting September 19. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) revealed the squad on Sunday, with Akash Deep and Yash Dayal, who earns his first call-up, both included.

The series commences on September 19 in Chennai, with the second Test slated for September 27 in Kanpur. Jasprit Bumrah will lead the pace attack alongside Mohammed Siraj, while Dayal makes his India debut. Akash Deep, having claimed nine wickets in a recent Duleep Trophy game, will look to build on his previous Test appearance against England. At a Kolkata event, Ganguly praised Akash Deep for his endurance and speed, likening him to Siraj and Shami.

Ganguly also highlighted the challenge Bangladesh will face against India's formidable spin quartet of Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Kuldeep Yadav, especially on Indian pitches. Despite Bangladesh's recent success against Pakistan, Ganguly asserts India's strong lineup positions it as favorites for the series. The forthcoming matches against Bangladesh will precede a packed schedule, including a series against New Zealand and the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia.

(With inputs from agencies.)