Akash Deep's Stumps-Targeting Strategy: Ex-England Pacer Broad Explains India's Bowling Edge in 2nd Test

Former England fast bowler Stuart Broad has showered praise on the Indian seamer Akash Deep, highlighting his effectiveness during the second Test. Broad analyzed why Akash Deep proved to be a greater threat to the English batsmen compared to their own pace attack on the relatively docile Edgbaston pitch.

Akash Deep celebrates a crucial wicket.

Broad, commentating for Sky Sports, emphasized Akash Deep's ability to target the stumps directly. "He brings the stumps into play, nips the ball. Even with the second new ball with Harry Brook (in the first innings), (he bowled) through the gate and off stump out of the ground," Broad explained.

He further added, "He's a real threat, and India have to use him wisely again on the final day. He's bowled wicket-taking balls. Start with him tomorrow while the ball's hard and still has a bit of newness. If he needs a rest until the next new ball comes, that's fine."

Broad also highlighted the importance of Akash Deep's strategic use of the crease, which was instrumental in dismissing Joe Root in the second innings.

"Using the crease is crucial. It's a skill and an art that every Test match bowler should have," said Broad.

Video: Analysis of Mohammed Siraj's bowling performance.

Broad elaborated on the tactical advantage gained by varying the release point. "Every bowler should have it really. I mean, how I used to sort of view it was a batter will always line up the same to you. 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 advised aspiring bowlers to practice this skill diligently. "You should practice that in the nets, and if you're going to play league cricket this weekend, just practice changing your angles slightly at the back end of your run. 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."