IND vs ENG, 2nd Test: Broad Praises Akash Deep's Impact, Reveals Key to Seamer's Success

Former England seamer Stuart Broad has lauded the performance of Indian bowler Akash Deep, highlighting his effectiveness during the second Test. Broad provided insights into why Deep posed a greater threat compared to the English pacers on the Edgbaston pitch.

Akash Deep celebrates a crucial wicket.

Broad, speaking on Sky Sports, emphasized Deep's strategic approach. "He brings the stumps into play, nips the ball, even with the second new ball with Harry Brook (in the first innings), 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 tonight. Start with him tomorrow while the ball's hard and while the ball's still got a bit of newness to it, and then maybe if he needs a rest until the next new ball comes, that's fine."

Broad also shed light on Deep's clever utilization of the crease, which proved instrumental in dismissing Joe Root during the second innings.

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

He elaborated on the importance of altering 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."

Broad advised aspiring bowlers to incorporate this technique into their practice sessions. "You should practise that in the nets, and if you're going to play league cricket this weekend, just practise changing your angles just 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."