Akash Deep had a memorable outing in the second Test against England and bagged a 10-fer to play a significant role in India's thumping win. Came in as a replacement for Jasprit Bumrah, Akash Deep ensured the team didn't miss the ace pacer, and delivered a performance that on most days would earn him a player of the match; however, with Gill scoring over 400 runs, he was snubbed.

Akash dropped a bombshell when he revealed that his sister is struggling with cancer, and dedicated the win to her. Despite being in a stressful and emotional situation, Akash Deep kept the news a secret from everyone, including his U-19 coach and mentor, former Bengal cricketer Saurasish Lahiri, who is very close to Akash Deep. Lahiri revealed that Akash got the news of his India call-up while sitting beside his sister at the hospital.

"I was really shocked. He didn't tell this big thing to anyone – not even me. I am so close to him, but he didn't share this. In fact, I called him after he claimed four wickets in the first innings. I was happy, but I said 'Panja (fifer) kab aayega'. He said Sir main pakka karke dikhaunga," Lahiri told Times of India.

"I called him after the match. I was a little unhappy with him – he used to share everything with me. Akash told me he was going through a family issue during that phase of IPL. In fact, he found out that he was in India squad while he was with his sister at the hospital, sitting bedside.

Lahiri also revealed that Akash gave his all for the treatment of his brother-in-law when he was diagnosed with a serious illness.

"I also remember a few months back – his brother-in-law – who lives in Pune, was suffering from a serious nerve-related disease. Akash was instrumental in getting him the right treatment. He took him to Mumbai, and spent night after nights. Thankfully, he is fine now, but his sister's disease came as a complete shock. Luckily, God has been kind, and she was diagnosed early and is being treated well," he said.

Lahiri said that Akash is delighted to contribute to India's win, adding that he is a very humble and down-to-earth guy.

"Akash was emotional on the call. He said he did everything he could do to put things in place for his sister. He was packing his bag from Edgbaston to London. He is a very stable-headed guy – very humble, very down to earth," he said.