Young India pacer Akash Deep lauded Indian captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli and told they are considered ‘gods of cricket’ ahead of the second and final Test versus Bangladesh in Kanpur. Akash was part of India’s 280-run win over Bangladesh in the series opener, in Chennai, where he returned with two scalps following his Test debut early this year, versus England where he claimed a three-fer. The 27-year-old credited Rohit and Kohli for his smooth transition from domestic to international cricket. Further, he termed the star duo as inspirational figures for keeping him motivated to work harder.

Speaking to the reporters in Kanpur, Akash said, “When I came here, I witnessed a different level of dedication and hard work from the players who are legends of the game, and considered the gods of cricket like Rohit, Virat bhai. I realised that they have achieved so much and are still working so hard during training. Their thought process is at a different level, this motivates me to work even harder.”

The speedster further opined “I had hesitation initially that there would be pressure, but Rohit bhaiya made things so simple. I haven’t played under such a supportive captain. He keeps things simple, I never felt whether I am playing domestic or international cricket.”

Akash also revealed that he is not thinking about his selection for the forthcoming five-match Test series versus Australia, in Australia. After the home series versus Bangladesh and New Zealand (including three Tests), India are set to travel Down Under for the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Akash, however, revealed that he is not thinking ahead and wants to live in the present.

He added, “I don’t put too much pressure that I need to go to Australia and all that. I live in the present. It remains simple for me.”

At present, India will aim for a 2-0 whitewash over the Najmul Shanto-led Bangla Tigers in the second and final Test, which gets underway at the Green Park stadium on Friday morning (Sep 27).