Akash Deep's Stump-Targeting Prowess Key to India's Attack, Says Broad

Former England seamer Stuart Broad has lauded Akash Deep for his effective bowling in the second Test. Broad highlighted Akash Deep's ability to target the stumps, making him a greater threat than England's pacers on the Edgbaston track.

Akash Deep celebrates after dismissing Joe Root during the second Test match, showcasing his impactful performance.

Broad emphasized Akash Deep's precision, stating, "He brings the stumps into play, nips the ball, even with the second new ball with Harry Brook (in the first innings), through the gate and off stump out of the ground." He further advised India to utilize him strategically, especially with the new ball.

Broad also noted the significance of Akash Deep's use of the crease, particularly in dismissing Joe Root during the second innings. "Using the crease. It's crucial. It's a skill and an art that every Test match bowler should have," Broad stated.

Broad explained how altering the release position can impact a batter's alignment. "If you can change your release position by a couple of inches at a time, they're not necessarily turning their shoulders or their feet position. So that little movement can be that half-bat-width distance that can catch the edge or make them miss it and hit the stump."

He recommended bowlers to practice adjusting angles, even in league cricket, to gain an advantage when there is limited swing. "Just go a foot wider but still imagine you're running in at off stump and just work with that, because if there's no swing in the air, you suddenly get a different angle that you can work with."