Indian fast bowler Akash Deep recently opened up about a touching gesture from former India captain Virat Kohli ahead of the first Test against Bangladesh at Chennai’s MA Chidambaram Stadium. The gesture showcased Kohli’s generosity and leadership, earning admiration from teammates and fans alike.
Speaking to reporters, Akash Deep revealed that during a practice session before the match, Kohli noticed that the young pacer didn’t have a proper bat for his training needs. Without hesitation, Kohli approached Akash and offered him one of his own bats, showcasing his supportive nature.
‘Virat bhai gave me one of his bats, it really boosted my confidence’ – Akash Deep
“He came to me and asked, ‘Bat chaiye kya?’ (Do you need a bat?), and I was taken aback. It was an incredible moment for me. Virat bhai gave me one of his bats, and it really boosted my confidence,” Akash Deep shared.
The gesture not only reflected Kohli’s willingness to help younger players but also demonstrated the camaraderie within the Indian team. Akash further praised Kohli’s approachable demeanor and his role as a mentor to younger players, highlighting how such small acts of kindness can have a big impact.
“Virat bhai is always ready to support the youngsters. He makes us feel comfortable and encourages us to give our best on the field. Receiving a bat from him was a special moment that I will always cherish,” Akash added.
India went on to secure a dominant 280-run victory over Bangladesh in the first Test, with Rishabh Pant and Ravichandran Ashwin delivering stellar performances. Kohli’s gesture of sharing his bat added a heartwarming narrative to the team’s success, reflecting the strong bond among the players.
As India aims for a series sweep, stories like these continue to highlight the positive environment within the squad under the leadership of Kohli and other senior players.
