Day 3 of the fifth Test between India and England at The Oval delivered not just high-quality cricket but also a moment of sportsmanship and camaraderie between two players who had been at the centre of a fiery exchange the previous day. Indian pacer Akash Deep and England’s Ben Duckett shared a surprise hug on the field while Akash was batting, easing the tension that had brewed on Day 2.
On Day 2, Akash Deep had dismissed Duckett with a sharp, rising delivery that led to one of the more talked-about send-offs of the series. Deep, pumped with adrenaline, fist-pumped in excitement and then walked toward Duckett with a smile on his face, placing an arm over the batter’s shoulder. The two exchanged words as Duckett turned to walk back. While it appeared harmless, the gesture drew varied reactions from fans and experts alike, with some questioning the tone of the celebration.
Fast forward to Day 3, and the mood had clearly shifted. As Akash Deep stood at the crease batting in India’s second innings, Ben Duckett approached him in a lighter moment. The two shared a brief laugh, and to everyone’s surprise, they embraced in a friendly hug. The crowd responded warmly, and the moment quickly made waves on social media, with fans appreciating the gesture.
In a match full of drama and skill, this moment stood out not for the bat or the ball, but for the character it revealed in both players.
