India Head Coach Gautam Gambhir Confirms Akash Deep Will Miss 5th Test Match
India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir has confirmed that pacer Akash Deep will miss the fifth Test against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground due to a back injury. Gambhir announced the news during a pre-match press conference, stating, “Akash Deep is out because he got a back issue.” This injury is particularly disappointing for the Indian team, as Deep had shown promise in his previous outings, taking five wickets across two Tests in Brisbane and Melbourne.
Deep’s absence creates a significant gap in India’s pace attack, which is already under pressure as they trail 2-1 in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series. The team needs to win this final Test to retain the trophy. Gambhir mentioned that the playing XI would be finalized after assessing the pitch conditions, with either HarshitRana or Prasidh Krishna likely to replace Deep.
The Indian squad faces immense pressure to perform, especially with senior players under scrutiny for their recent performances. As they prepare for this crucial match, all eyes will be on JaspritBumrah and Mohammed Siraj to lead the bowling attack effectively against a formidable Australian side.