From Sasaram to Stardom: Akash Deep’s Emotional Journey to Edgbaston Glory

Sasaram/Birmingham: India’s fast bowler Akash Deep etched his name into cricketing history with a sensational 10-wicket haul in the second Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy at Edgbaston, Birmingham. His performance powered India to a record-breaking 336-run victory over England — the team’s biggest win by runs on English soil.

With 4 wickets in the first innings and 6 in the second, Akash Deep became only the second Indian bowler to claim 10 wickets in a Test match in England. The last to achieve this feat was Chetan Sharma, at the same venue in 1986. England, chasing a daunting target of 608, folded for 271 on the final day, leveling the five-match series at 1-1.

This win also marked India’s first-ever Test victory in Birmingham in 58 years. Out of the previous eight matches played at the venue, India had lost seven, with one ending in a draw.

A Win for the Country, A Tribute for the Family

What made the victory more emotional was Akash Deep’s dedication of his performance to his sister, who has been battling cancer.

“This performance is for you,” an emotional Akash Deep said in a post-match interview. “Whenever I held the ball, I thought of you. I just want to see a smile on your face. We’re all with you.”

Photos of Akash Deep celebrating each wicket with fierce energy and a broad smile went viral, capturing not just a cricketing triumph, but a personal victory.

From Village Grounds to World Stage

Born in Rohtas district’s Sasaram in Bihar, Akash Ddeep’s journey has been anything but easy. With the Bihar Cricket Association under suspension during his formative years, he lacked a proper platform.  

Akash Deep’s father Ramji Singh had advised him to become a peon or constable. But he often used to play cricket secretly.

The death of his father and elder brother in 2015 forced him to step away from cricket for nearly three years. At just 19, he became the sole breadwinner of his family.

To support his family, he played tennis ball cricket in Durgapur, earning ₹800 per day and sending home nearly ₹25,000 a month. His move to Bengal, prompted by Bihar’s lack of opportunities, changed everything. He joined the United Club in the CAB League, where coaches recognized his potential and groomed him into a professional fast bowler.

IPL Stardom and National Call-Up

Akash Deep’s break came with Royal Challengers Bangalore in IPL 2021. By 2025, his value soared when Lucknow Super Giants bought him for ₹8 crore. He made his India debut in February 2024 against England and was brought in as a replacement for Jasprit Bumrah for the Edgbaston Test.

The result? A match-winning spell that now stands as a career-defining moment.

“Chachu Is Our Hero,” Says Family

Back in his village, Akash Deep’s family erupted in joy with every England wicket. His niece Arya Singh shared, “The whole family was watching together. With every wicket, we jumped with happiness. Chachu always says — work hard, be independent, and chase big dreams.”

His sister Jyoti said, “The way my younger brother dedicated this match to me is the happiest moment of my life.” His mother Laduma Devi, eyes brimming with pride, told local media, “Hamra beta aaj desh ke naam roshan kar dihalas (My son has made the country proud today).”

Net Worth and Rising Stardom

Beyond the cricket field, Akash Deep’s net worth has reportedly touched ₹40 crore. As a Grade-C BCCI player, he earns ₹1 crore annually, in addition to IPL contracts and brand endorsements.

He has taken 128 wickets in 38 first-class matches and is now one of India’s most talked-about fast bowlers, not just for his on-field performance, but for the grit behind his rise.

A Star Is Born

The Edgbaston Test has turned Akash Deep into a household name — from the dusty lanes of Sasaram to the global cricket stage. His powerful bowling, heartfelt dedication, and resilient backstory are now inspiring millions across India.

As the series moves forward, all eyes will be on this humble pacer from Bihar — a young man who turned personal tragedy into a moment of national triumph.