India’s fast bowler Akash Deep delivered a match-winning performance at Edgbaston, helping India crush England by 336 runs. His 10 wickets across both innings, including six in the second, brought India level in the five-match series at 1-1.

In the second innings, Akash removed Ben Duckett, Joe Root, Ollie Pope, Harry Brook, Jamie Smith, and Brydon Carse, showing world-class pace and control. India didn’t miss Jasprit Bumrah, as Akash stepped up strongly and led the bowling attack.

The Emotional Dedication

After the win, Akash revealed that his sister Akhand Jyoti Singh had been diagnosed with cancer two months ago, and said he was dedicating the performance to her. Speaking emotionally, he told her, “I did all this for you and for the country. I took those wickets for you.”

His sister, in an interview with Aaj Tak, admitted she didn’t expect him to go public with her health battle. She said, “I had no idea Akash would say something like that. Maybe we weren’t ready to talk about it publicly, but the way he became emotional and said it for me—dedicating it to me—it’s a big deal.”

A Close Bond Through Hard Times

His sister explained that Akash’s words meant a lot, especially because of the tough situation at home. She said, “It shows how much he loves our family and me. Given the situation at home, and still performing like that and taking wickets there, it’s a huge thing. I’m the one he is closest to.”

After the match, the two spoke through video calls. She recalled, “After the match ended, we spoke twice over video call, and again at 5 AM in the morning.” During the call, Akash comforted her by saying, “Don’t worry, the whole country is with us.” He also told her, “I couldn’t hold it in anymore. I had been trying to, but yesterday I just couldn’t stop myself.”

A Brother Who Always Stays Connected

His sister described Akash as someone who always puts family first. She said, “Such a brother is rare. He helps us a lot and doesn’t do anything without talking to us. He shares everything with the family.” With their father and eldest brother no longer alive, Akash has taken on a larger role at home. “He is the one now managing the whole household,” she said.

During IPL, He Still Made Time for Family

While playing for the Lucknow Super Giants during the 2025 IPL, Akash found time to visit his sister despite his packed schedule. She shared, “When the IPL was going on and he was playing for the Lucknow team, I was admitted to the hospital for cancer treatment. Even then, he would come to meet me either before or after the matches.”

Akash played six matches that season and picked up three wickets, but his focus remained divided between cricket and family.

Motivator and Caregiver

His sister spoke about how much he supported her during her treatment. “During my cancer treatment, he was the one who motivated me the most,” she said. Even when she tried to ease his worries, he reassured her by saying, “Everything I have is for my sisters and my family.”

She revealed that they are three brothers and three sisters, but sadly one of the sisters passed away. Akash, being the youngest, stays closely connected. “Before and after every match, he makes sure to call home on video,” she added.

A Performance That Went Beyond Cricket

Akash Deep also took four wickets in the first innings, rounding off a ten-wicket haul that helped India dominate. Yet, his performance meant more than just numbers—it was a tribute to the strength of his sister and his bond with his family.