Akash Deep Declares Himself "100% Fit" After Injury Layoff, Ready for IPL 2025

After a three-month hiatus due to a back injury, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) fast bowler Akash Deep has announced that he is "100% fit and ready to play." The 25-year-old cricketer, who was sidelined for several months, is eager to make his mark in the ongoing IPL 2025 season.

INJURY RECOVERY AND RETURN TO LSG

Akash Deep, who had represented India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy last year, sustained his injury just ahead of the fifth Test in Sydney. After being out of action for several months, he joined the LSG squad on April 2, just two days before their upcoming match Mumbai Indians against the Lucknow Super Giants.

“I feel the first match is crucial for me,” Akash said ahead of the fixture. "I’ve played a practice match, but in cricket, a two-to-three-month gap can disrupt your rhythm. No matter how much you practice, confidence only comes from playing actual matches."

FROM RCB TO LSG: A NEW CHAPTER

Akash’s last T20 appearance was for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2024. It marked his only T20 game in over a year, following his last appearance in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy in late 2023. Released by RCB ahead of the 2025 auction, Akash was picked up by LSG for INR 8 crore, and he is excited about his new journey with the franchise.

"The jersey might change, but the player stays the same," Akash remarked. "I am really enjoying my time with LSG. Even though I haven’t been with the team for long due to injury, I’m feeling confident."

THE IMPORTANCE OF CONFIDENCE AND PROCESS

Speaking about his approach to the tournament, Akash emphasized the importance of belief in one’s process. "As an individual, it’s important to trust your process and stay focused on it. The simpler you keep your game, the easier it is to perform. Confidence is key in this format, and that’s something I’m working on as I re-enter the competition."

LSG’S MIXED START TO IPL 2025

LSG has had a rocky start to their IPL 2025 campaign, under the captaincy of Rishabh Pant. After losing their opening match to Delhi Capitals by one wicket, they bounced back with a comfortable win over Sunrisers Hyderabad. However, they were defeated at home by Punjab Kings in their most recent outing and currently sit in the lower half of the points table.

Despite their mixed form, LSG’s pace attack, led by Shardul Thakur, Avesh Khan, and rookie Prince Yadav, has been commendable, especially considering the injury woes they’ve faced in the fast bowling department. Mohsin Khan was ruled out before the tournament, and Mayank Yadav’s recovery from a lumbar stress injury was delayed due to a toe injury.

AKASH DEEP’S OPTIMISM FOR THE FUTURE

Akash remains optimistic about LSG’s chances in the long tournament, noting, “In cricket, performance isn’t always in our control as a team. We’ve played only three matches, and the IPL is a long tournament. We’ve seen plenty of positives in these matches, despite the injuries. The way we performed in the first match was impressive. The best is yet to come.”

LEARNING FROM ZAHEER KHAN

One of the key highlights for Akash Deep in this IPL season is the opportunity to work with former India pacer Zaheer Khan, who serves as the LSG mentor. “I feel fortunate to be playing under a coach like Zaheer Khan, who has such vast experience,” said Akash. "In two months, he can guide me on the technical nuances that can enhance my game. As a fast bowler, you can’t make drastic changes, but the small improvements are important, and I’m excited to learn from him."

With Akash Deep back to full fitness and the IPL season still in its early stages, LSG fans are hopeful that the pacer will play a pivotal role in the team’s quest for success.