“Many people believed KKR didn’t look at Bengali players” - Akash Deep’s huge remark after IPL 2026 auction

India pacer Akash Deep has said that his signing by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) will inspire other Bengali players to aim for the franchise. During the IPL 2026 auction on December 16, the three-time IPL champions secured the 29-year-old at his base price of ₹1 crore.

In an interview with RevSportz, released on Saturday, December 20, Akash Deep mentioned that he had often heard people say KKR did not consider Bengali players. He believes that with his inclusion in the squad, this perception will change, and it will motivate young talent. He said:

“It’s a very positive sign because it will motivate other youngsters from our state who are currently playing. Even I used to hear that many people believed the KKR franchise didn’t look at Bengali players. Those perceptions will now change. They’ll get motivation, a positive message will go out to them, and they’ll work harder. So it’s a very good thing for us and for our team as well.” “I’m feeling really good, very happy, because I remember that when I started playing cricket for the first time, I came to Kolkata for net bowling. So it feels great to be part of this team. The biggest thing is that this is our home franchise, which is a very good thing both for me as an individual and for the team. After a long time, a Bengali player is becoming part of KKR, and that feels special,” he added.

Overall, Akash Deep’s IPL record has been modest. He has played 14 matches, claiming 10 wickets at an average of 54.80, with a strike rate of 27.8 and an economy of 11.82.

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“I’d love to do his Pathaan step with him” - Akash Deep shares his excitement about meeting the KKR co-owner

In the same interaction, Akash Deep expressed his excitement about meeting KKR co-owner and Bollywood veteran Shah Rukh Khan, saying:

“Absolutely. I haven’t met him till now, and it will be my first time meeting him. It’s a great opportunity because I’ll get to learn a lot from him. The way he started his journey and the level he has reached in his field is truly inspiring. If I get the chance, I would love to meet him and have a conversation with him.” “I don’t watch many films as I’m not very interested in movies. However, I still remember watching his film Baazigar at home when others were watching it. And yes, I’d love to do his Pathaan step with him,” he added.

The Knight Riders will be aiming to bounce back and secure their fourth title in the 2026 edition after a disappointing 2025 season, in which they finished eighth.

Edited by Dev Sharma