Deepak Hooda: The batter who is finally realizing his potential
The Indian Premier League is one of the major reasons why we see so many young and potential players making it to Team India at the international level. IPL helps in seeking the emerging players of the game, who can sail past the league and make their way at the highest level.
One such finding has been Deepak Hooda. He has been consistent throughout his domestic career and has been performing very well in the IPL. He started his career as a wicketkeeper-batter and has now emerged as a batting all-rounder, bowling off-spin in the game. He represents the Baroda team in the domestic leg and had scored a century in his debut game.
He was first seen in the IPL in the year 2015 when he was roped in by the Rajasthan Royals, and at a strike rate of 160+, he managed to score 151 runs throughout the season. From becoming the player to hit the fastest 50 for Royals (2015) to becoming the uncapped player to score the fastest fifty in the IPL, Hooda came a long way in the game.
This year, representing the Lucknow Super Giants, the 27-year-old has two 50+ scores in just four matches played so far, and he has taken his runs tally to 130. He has been a hero for his side and proved his worth in the game. He plays the shots fearlessly, which shows how mature he has grown in the game.
Hooda can also prove to be a prolific all-rounder if given the proper opportunity. Team India’s bowling options have declined in the past few years in the shortest format. If Hooda performs well in the middle and showcases economical bowling, then he might get into the radar for being picked as India’s all-rounder.
The youngster has a dream of representing his country on the biggest stage, that being the World Cup. He has been working hard towards achieving his goal, and the hard work is clearly paying off.