As Bengal prepare for another shot at the Ranji Trophy, fast bowler Akash Deep has opened up about the support and guidance he has received from former India captain and current CAB president Sourav Ganguly.
The 28-year-old pacer, who returns to lead Bengal's bowling attack this season, spoke about how Ganguly's constant encouragement keeps him grounded and motivated.
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Akash also reflected on Bengal's near-misses in recent years and expressed his determination to finally bring the coveted title home when the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy begins on October 15.
Akash Deep credits Sourav Ganguly’s support ahead of Bengal’s Ranji Trophy 2025-26
Akash revealed that Ganguly regularly checks in with him and gives him simple yet effective advice.
“Sourav sir has always motivated me through calls and messages. He tells me to focus on the process and hard work instead of worrying about results,” Akash said during a pre-season media interaction.
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The pacer credited Ganguly's mentorship for keeping him mentally strong, especially during his rehabilitation from a back injury earlier this year.
Having finished as runners-up twice in the last five years, Bengal remain desperate for the title. Akash said those near-misses still drive him.
“Coming so close twice and failing to lift the trophy hurts a lot. My biggest dream is to win the Ranji Trophy for Bengal. People here love and respect cricket deeply, and we want to win it for them,” he said.
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He also said that domestic cricket has become more demanding and requires greater discipline to succeed.
“We have been one of the most consistent teams. The trophy has eluded us, but our success rate has been very good. Discipline is our biggest strength,” he added.
The upcoming season will also mark Akash's first time sharing the field with veteran pacer Mohammad Shami, something he has eagerly looking forward to.
“It's my first opportunity to play with Shami bhai. You learn a lot from players like him - their preparation, effort, everything,” he concluded.
Bengal will begin their Ranji Trophy 2025-26 campaign against Uttarakhand at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, on October 15.