India vs England LIVE Score, 5th Test Day 3: Akash Deep Dishes Out ‘Bazball’ Treatment, Slams Maiden Test 50 In Style
Day 3 of the India vs England 5th Test brought an unexpected twist to the script — and it wasn’t a seasoned batter or an established all-rounder stealing the limelight. It was Akash Deep, the young Indian pacer, who delivered a counter-punch that left fans and experts stunned, not with the ball, but with the bat. In true ‘Bazball’ fashion — a term coined for England’s aggressive, fearless approach under coach Brendon McCullum — Akash Deep turned the tables on England, scoring his maiden Test half-century in electrifying style.
Akash Deep’s Fireworks Turn the Heat Up
Known more for his bowling prowess, Akash Deep walked in with India in a tricky situation, trailing England’s imposing first-innings total. With top-order batters dismissed and the pressure mounting, most expected the tail to fold quickly. But the right-hander had other ideas. Displaying confidence that belied his batting average, Akash Deep launched an audacious attack on the English bowlers.
He showed zero hesitation in taking on the short ball, smashing pulls, upper cuts, and straight drives with impressive timing and authority. In just 54 balls, he brought up his first-ever Test fifty — a feat no one saw coming, and that too against a high-quality English pace attack spearheaded by James Anderson and Mark Wood.
Channeling ‘Bazball’ Energy — On England!
Ironically, Akash Deep’s approach mirrored England’s much-hyped ‘Bazball’ philosophy — fearless, entertaining, and aggressive. His intent to dominate every delivery turned the tide of India’s innings and brought crucial runs that helped close the deficit. While England had set the template with their attacking mindset, Akash Deep returned the favor, giving them a taste of their own medicine.
Social media erupted as soon as he reached his milestone, with cricket fans dubbing him the “unexpected Bazball hero”. His six off Anderson over deep mid-wicket and a fiercely driven four past cover were shots of the day, signaling that tailenders today are no longer just blockers — they’re run-makers too.
India’s Lower Order Resists — Momentum Shifts
Thanks to Akash Deep’s heroics, India avoided a potential collapse and managed to reduce the first-innings deficit to under 100 runs. His partnerships with Kuldeep Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah frustrated England, and the momentum slowly began to shift in India’s favor. The resilience of the lower order, led by Akash Deep, has not only kept India in the game but also raised serious questions about England’s ability to finish innings.
With the pitch still playing true and time left in the match, India will look to leverage this momentum when they come out to bowl in the second innings.
What This Means for India’s Future
Akash Deep’s innings could mark the beginning of a broader trend in Indian cricket — developing tailenders who can contribute meaningfully with the bat. Much like Australia’s Pat Cummins or England’s own Mark Wood, having a bowler who can bat confidently adds an extra layer of depth to the team’s balance.
For Akash Deep personally, this knock may prove career-defining. It showcased not only his technique and temperament under pressure but also his fighting spirit — a quality every successful Test cricketer must possess.
LIVE Score Update (As of Day 3 Mid-Session)
England: 312 all out
India: 287/9 (Akash Deep 52*, Bumrah 12*)
Deficit: 25 runs
With both teams locked in a close contest, Day 3 continues to promise excitement, drama, and — as Akash Deep showed — a few surprises. Stay tuned for more live updates as the final Test of the series builds toward a thrilling conclusion.
Stay with us for LIVE coverage, score updates, expert analysis, and post-session insights as the India vs England 5th Test unfolds.
