The call-up to India’s Asian Games cricket squad couldn’t have come at a better time for pacer Akash Deep, who was getting ready for the next level having proved his mettle in the Ranji Trophy.

However, what excites the Bengal quick probably a little more is the possibility of
meeting Olympic gold-medallist and javelin throw world champion Neeraj Chopra in Hangzhou.

“Of course, it would be great if I can meet Neeraj Chopra and talk with him. It’s not just about speaking to a champion athlete like him, but you also get a chance to have an idea of the mindset of an Olympic gold-medallist and world champion, his approach, way of thinking and how he works on his fitness.

“That matters a great deal for any sportsperson who wishes to scale bigger heights,” Akash, who has been honing his skills at the National Cricket Academy in Bangalore for almost a fortnight with the rest of the Asian Games-bound squad, told The Telegraph.

His maiden India call-up — materialising after Uttar Pradesh pacer Shivam Mavi was ruled out with a back injury — didn’t come as much of a surprise though for the 26-year-old. “I had been asked to report at the NCA earlier this month.

“I could sense some development then itself. So, when I came to know about my selection (on Saturday night), honestly, I wasn’t too surprised,” Akash acknowledged.

Akash’s new-ball partner in the Bengal team, Mukesh Kumar, is also a part of the Asian Games squad. Whether the duo get to feature together in the XI remains to be seen as this Indian squad also comprises quicks Arshdeep Singh and Avesh Khan, who are expected to be first preferences.

Akash, however, isn’t too worried about that. “A national team berth is always precious no matter when it comes. For me too, being in the India squad itself is a huge motivation as that is what we all play for at the end of the day. One feels the urge to excel and give that extra bit,” he said.

Pace is Akash’s forte while he has also worked on swing. At this point in time, the slower delivery is one of his areas of focus.

“The slower one is something I’m laying emphasis on at present. In T20 cricket especially, it’s one important component of your bowling.

“I’m trying out the wide yorkers as well, although in the end, all that matters is how well you make use of and execute your strengths as that is what drives you forward and propels you.

“That’s what I prioritise as well instead of setting targets for a particular season and stuff of that sort,” Akash emphasised.