Akash Deep returns from seven-month injury layoff for Irani Cup

Akash Deep will return to competitive cricket for the first time since February when he plays for Rest of India against Jammu and Kashmir in the Irani Cup starting Thursday at the Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium in Srinagar. The 29-year-old fast bowler missed the last seven months after suffering a stress fracture in his lower back.

The injury was detected after Bengal's Ranji Trophy semi-final against Jammu and Kashmir last season. Akash spent his rehabilitation at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, using the time to work with a dietitian, adjust his training load and improve his sleep patterns. He said the layoff taught him to manage his body more carefully.

Akash recorded match figures of 10 for 187 in India's 336-run win over England at Edgbaston in July 2025. He will face Jammu and Kashmir again, the opponents in his final match before the injury.