From Nightwatchman to Meme Sensation: Akash Deep’s Maiden Test Fifty Lights Up IND vs ENG 5th Test 2025

The Oval witnessed an unexpected hero on Day 3 of the IND vs ENG 5th Test 2025—Akash Deep, a pacer turned nightwatchman, who stunned everyone with a gritty and memorable maiden Test half-century. Sent in late on Day 2 after the fall of Sai Sudharsan, Deep weathered England’s pace attack under lights. But what followed on Day 3 was pure cricket theatre as he smashed 66 runs off 94 deliveries, including 12 elegant boundaries, forming a crucial 107-run stand with Yashasvi Jaiswal.

His fearless knock not only steadied India’s innings but also sparked a meme-fest across social media. Cricket fans, content creators, and even ex-cricketers celebrated his surprising flair with the bat, making Akash Deep trend nationwide.

Akash Deep Scores Maiden Test Half-Century in IND vs ENG 5th Test 2025

Akash Deep, known for his fast bowling, showcased an unexpected side of his cricketing arsenal with the bat during India’s second innings at The Oval. Walking in as a nightwatchman late on Day 2, he held his ground and played out a tense session. The following morning, he took on the English bowlers with surprising confidence.

Scoring 66 off just 94 deliveries, the right-handed tailender struck 12 fours, some of them crisply driven, leaving even seasoned cricket analysts impressed. His innings wasn’t just about survival—it was about counterpunching under pressure.

The highlight of Deep’s innings was his partnership with opener Yashasvi Jaiswal. Their 107-run stand not only pulled India out of a tricky situation but also gave the team a chance to dictate terms going into the final two days of the Test. England’s bowlers, clearly rattled, failed to dismiss him cheaply, giving rise to a slew of memes celebrating Deep’s batting exploits.

Funny Memes on Akash Deep Go Viral After Surprise Knock

Within minutes of Akash Deep reaching his fifty, social media was flooded with hilarious memes and fan reactions. X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and cricket fan pages erupted with creativity:

• A user captioned a meme: “Akash Deep to England bowlers: ‘Is this a dagger I see before me?’”

• Another posted a clip of Gautam Gambhir animatedly clapping, labeling it: “Gambhir watching Akash Deep bat like a top-order batter”

• One meme showed a confused Ben Duckett, referencing their hug after a recent send-off controversy.

The meme wave, however, was more than just comedy. It symbolized how cricket fans cherish unexpected heroes—especially those who break stereotypes. Akash, a fast bowler, was expected to survive a few deliveries, not to dominate the attack with flair. His transformation from a nightwatchman to a batting sensation is now part of cricketing folklore.

What This Means for Team India Going Forward

Akash Deep’s half-century may not cement his place in the top order, but it certainly adds value to his role as a lower-order contributor. With India experimenting in the transition phase, having tailenders who can bat becomes a huge asset. His innings, full of calm judgment and occasional aggression, has earned him praise from pundits and fans alike.

More importantly, it reflects India’s depth in talent—a reminder that even bowlers can turn into game-changers with the bat.

You Must Know:

What was Akash Deep’s score in the 5th Test against England?
Akash Deep scored 66 runs off 94 balls, hitting 12 boundaries. It was his maiden Test half-century.

Why was Akash Deep trending on social media?
He trended after delivering a surprise half-century and became the center of countless funny memes celebrating his unexpected batting brilliance.

What is a nightwatchman in cricket?
A nightwatchman is a lower-order batter sent in near the end of a day’s play to protect more skilled batters from challenging conditions.

How did fans react to Akash Deep’s performance?
Fans celebrated his innings with humor and creativity, flooding platforms like X and Instagram with viral memes.

Who did Akash Deep build a partnership with during the Test?
He shared a vital 107-run partnership with opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, stabilizing India’s second innings.

What is the significance of this knock for India’s future?
His innings showcased the increasing all-round abilities of Indian players, providing flexibility and resilience in the lower order.