“I’m always hopeful…”: Akash Deep eyes fresh start in IPL 2026 with KKR

Aakash Saini

Akash Deep [Source: @ImTanujSingh/X.com]Akash Deep [Source: @ImTanujSingh/X.com]

Indian fast bowler Akash Deep was acquired by the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the IPL 2026 auction earlier this week. The speedster was recently released by the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) after playing just six matches for them back in IPL 2025.

With a new team and fresh beginnings on the horizon, Akash Deep is “hopeful” of receiving more playing XI opportunities with KKR as he explained the benefits of playing for a T20 franchise belonging to his state.

Akash Deep “ready to adapt” for KKR

While speaking with the Telegraph, Indian quick Akash Deep expressed his excitement of joining the KKR franchise for next year’s IPL 2026 season. He also explained the benefits of playing for a franchise of the state he represents in domestic cricket, Bengal, claiming that his association will help the franchise in connecting with the fans.

Akash Deep said:

“Being a professional cricketer, I am ready to adapt for any team. But yes, it’s always good to play for the franchise of the state you represent. Besides, KKR too have a player now from Bengal, which is another positive and bodes well in terms of a better connect between the franchise and the fans.”

Akash Deep played just six games for LSG earlier in IPL 2025, and represented the RCB franchise between the years 2022 and 2024 for just eight matches combined.

Having played just 14 IPL matches in his four-season career so far, Akash Deep is hopeful of receiving more opportunities with the KKR in IPL 2026 next year. He added:

“Yes, I’m always hopeful (of getting more games). So accordingly, I’m striving for further improvement and working on my variations as I want to play more and more matches. That’s the best way to get the rhythm back.”

Akash Deep, who was part of India’s team for South Africa Tests at home, last played international cricket back in August against England at The Oval.

As of now, the speedster is prepping up to play for Bengal in the upcoming 2025-26 Vijay Hazare Trophy.