Bengal fast bowler Akash Deep had a memorable outing in the recently concluded Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, as he ended up picking 13 wickets in the series in six innings and was India's fourth-highest wicket-taker.
The lanky fast bowler performed consistently in the tour and picked up some crucial wickets, including that of Ben Duckett.
During the first innings in the fifth and final Test at the Oval, Akash Deep got embroiled in a controversial moment due to his celebration, following his dismissal of Duckett.
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After getting the English opener out, Akash Deep put his arm around the southpaw's shoulder and said something to him, which wasn't picked up on camera.
While the gesture at that point seemed harmless, experts later criticised the Indian fast bowler for being disrespectful towards an opponent.
What did Akash Deep say to Ben Duckett in the 5th Test at the Oval?
Akash Deep has finally revealed the conversation he had with Duckett, while speaking on the controversial celebration, which earned him sharp criticisms from various corners.
Speaking to Revsportz, the fast bowler said: "Yes, I had already got him out a few times by then, but the way he was batting, I was also a bit confused which areas to bowl to him. He told me: ‘You cannot take my wicket in this innings’, and then got out to my bowling. That was what I was telling him during the send-off, that ‘sometimes you miss, I hit’."
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What next for Akash Deep?
The 28-year-old will shift his focus to domestic cricket as he is all set to represent East Zone in the upcoming Duleep Trophy 2025, which starts later this month.