Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan could not be more proud of what Deepak Hooda has accomplished for his country in the few opportunities he has had.
The depth of the Indian cricket team at the moment is one of its most notable features. With up to 40 great players at their leisure, India is in a position to field two to three different teams.
Deepak Hooda, who has performed a few heart-stopping innings, is one of the numerous promising young players for Indian cricket. Hooda was hardly a household name until a year ago, except for his occasionally outstanding IPL performances. However, the spotlight is currently being dominated by right-handed batsmen.
A lot happened for Hooda behind the scenes, unnoticed by the media. He worked hard to get a spot on the National Cricket Team, and when he was there, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan was a rock to which he always turned for support.
‘I am excited to see what he can bring to the Indian team’: Irfan Pathan
Hooda’s growth has been praised by Pathan, who also referred to him as a late bloomer. He has urged the young all-rounder to have many successful years at the international level while stressing the potential for Hooda to do big things for India in the coming years.
“Hooda himself doubted whether the India cap would arrive two years ago. Today, he is a point when this happens of someone who has demonstrated that accepting your flaws and making a conscious effort to improve them will win you half the war” Irfan Pathan said.
“What he might be able to bring to the Indian team excites me. He is only 27. He has the potential to accomplish much more if he gives India six to seven strong years “ Irfan Pathan told ESPNCricinfo.
Hooda had a notable year in 2022 as he made his ODI and T20I debuts for India. In the most recent series against Ireland, Hooda scored his first century for India.