On August 2, 2025, performing brilliantly during the fifth Test match against England at Oval, Indian fast bowler Akash Deep scored his first Test half -century by playing an innings of 66 runs, which was highly praised by former cricketer Sanjay Bangar. Knightwatchman’s 12 fours adorned with 12 fours and 107 runs for the third wicket with Yashasvi Jaiswal made India’s second innings to 396 runs and set a challenging target of 374 runs in front of England.

On Geographstar, Bangar appreciated the patience of Akash and said: “He played like a true batsman, thoughtful after an aggressive start against Bethel. He was not afraid of short balls, took advantage of the opportunities with fielding and ran well.” Akash’s effort, including a catch left by Jack Croly, showed his flexibility in avoiding follow-on during the Brisbane Test last year. Jaiswal’s 118 runs and half -centuries by Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar further strengthened India’s position.

England finished the third day’s game at 50/1, in which Yorker offered Crowley on the last ball of Mohammad Siraj and gave India an edge. Bangar praised India’s bowling discipline: “Famous and Akash did excellent fielding, such as using a sweeper cover, dismissing the Crolley and curbing England’s aggressive openers.” The partnership was the 18th century partnership of the series, which is a record since 2003-04.

The first innings played by an Indian nightwatchman after Amit Mishra’s 84 -run innings at The Oval in 2011 made captain Shubman Gill and coach Gautam Gambhir happy. Despite England leaving six catches, India’s strategic batting and bowling have made him a strong contender to draw a series, while on the fourth day England needed 324 runs to win.