Know your Cricketer: Deepak Hooda; Hurricane Hooda

 

Deepak Hooda, the talented Indian cricketer, has made a significant impact in the world of cricket with his exceptional skills as an all-rounder. Known for his powerful batting, effective offbreak bowling, and brilliant fielding, Hooda has proved himself to be an asset for any T20 side. Let's delve into the journey of this remarkable player and explore his achievements and contributions to the game.

Early Life and Cricket Journey
Born on April 19th, 1995, in Rohtak, Haryana, Deepak Hooda exhibited a passion for cricket from a young age. His dedication and talent led him to pursue a career in the sport, and he soon became a standout player in his local cricket circuit. With his right-handed batting style and right-arm offbreak bowling, Hooda showcased versatility on the field, making him a force to be reckoned with.

Rise in the Indian Premier League
Hooda's journey in the Indian Premier League (IPL) began in 2015 when he was only 19 years old. Representing the Rajasthan Royals, he quickly caught the attention of cricket enthusiasts and commentators with his explosive batting skills. It was during this debut season that he earned the nickname "Hurricane Hooda" due to his ability to single-handedly turn the game's tide with his aggressive approach.

Impressed by his performances, Sunrisers Hyderabad secured Hooda's services in the following IPL auction, offering him a lucrative ₹4.2Cr deal. This move provided him with a platform to further showcase his talents and contribute to his team's success. Alongside his batting prowess, Hooda also proved to be a proficient boundary fielder, adding value to his team's overall performance.

Contribution to Baroda and Ranji Trophy Success
Hooda's exceptional skills and leadership qualities led to his appointment as the captain of the Baroda cricket team during the 2016-17 Ranji Trophy season. In this role, he displayed immense maturity and guided his team to success with his exceptional cricketing acumen. It was during this season that Hooda achieved a significant milestone by scoring his first double-century, solidifying his position as a valuable asset in the squad.

International Debut and Ongoing Journey
Deepak Hooda's talent and consistent performances earned him a call-up to the Indian national team. He made his Twenty20 International debut against Sri Lanka in 2017, showcasing his ability to adapt to the international stage. With his powerful batting and crafty offbreak bowling, he proved to be a valuable addition to the Indian squad.

Hooda's journey continued to progress, and he made his One Day International (ODI) debut against West Indies in 2022. This marked another milestone in his career, and he impressed with his all-round abilities and determination to contribute to his team's success.

A New Chapter: Lucknow Super Giants
In preparation for the IPL 2023 season, Deepak Hooda's skills and potential caught the attention of the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Recognizing his value as an all-rounder, LSG secured his services for a whopping ₹5.75CR, highlighting his growing reputation in the cricketing world.

Career Stats:

 

Conclusion
Deepak Hooda's journey from a young and talented cricketer to a prominent all-rounder has been nothing short of remarkable. With his powerful batting, effective offbreak bowling, and exceptional fielding skills, he has proven to be an invaluable asset for any T20 side. As he continues to make strides in his career, the cricketing world eagerly awaits his future performances and contributions to the game.