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India pacer Akash Deep, who stepped in as a replacement for Jasprit Bumrah, delivered a sensational performance in the second Test against England at Edgbaston, claiming 10 wickets and playing a pivotal role in India's emphatic 336-run win. Following the match, Akash made an emotional revelation that touched fans deeply—he dedicated his match-winning effort to his sister, Jyoti, who is currently battling cancer.
Despite her condition, Jyoti remains unwavering in her support for her brother. She encouraged Akash to stay focused on his cricket, assuring him that she is holding strong.
“It’s a proud moment for the nation—he’s taken 10 wickets. Before he left for the England tour, we met him at the airport. I told him, ‘I’m fine, don’t worry about me—just give your best for the country.’ I’m in stage three now, and the treatment is expected to last another six months, then we’ll reassess,” Jyoti shared.
She described the joy Akash’s success brings to their family. “Whenever he takes a wicket, we all cheer and clap so loudly that the neighbors ask what’s going on!” she said, laughing.
Reacting to Akash's public tribute, Jyoti admitted she wasn’t expecting it. “I didn’t know he would say something like that. Maybe we weren’t prepared to speak about it openly, but the way he got emotional and dedicated it to me—it means a lot. It shows how much he values the family and me. To be going through all this at home and still perform like that—it’s incredible. We’ve always been closest,” she added.
Must Read: Akash Deep rises from tragedy to triumph, dedicates historic Test win to cancer-fighting sister
Jyoti revealed that her diagnosis first came to light during the IPL season when Akash was playing for the Lucknow franchise. “While he was busy with the IPL, I was hospitalized for treatment. Yet, he made it a point to visit me before or after his matches,” she said.
The two shared an emotional moment after the Test in Birmingham. “We spoke on video call twice after the match, and again at 5 in the morning. Akash said, ‘Don’t worry, the entire nation stands with us.’ He told me, ‘I couldn’t keep it in anymore. I tried, but yesterday I just couldn’t hold back.’”
Calling him a rare and devoted brother, Jyoti praised his sense of responsibility. “Since our father and eldest brother passed away, Akash has taken charge of the family. He shares everything with us and never makes a decision without consulting the family. He supports us in every way,” she said.
