Deepak Hooda emerged as the ‘superhero’ for the Indian cricket team on the tour of Ireland, scoring his maiden international ton in the second T20I. Hooda, who is generally a middle-order batter, was asked to open in the first T20I.
Ruturaj Gaikwad was supposed to open alongside Ishan Kishan in the first T20I but an injury prompted the team management to promote Hooda. He emerged as India’s top-scorer in that match, scoring 47 off 29 in a rain-curtailed match. After the conclusion of the series, Hooda spoke about the mindset he adopted after being asked to take up the role vacated by Ruturaj.
“I have had never opened in an international game. But being a top-order batsman, you have to cope up to the challenges and you don’t have any option. If you don’t have any option, then why don’t you go there like a warrior. That’s how I think, so I was ready and things turned in my way. I’m happy about that,” Hooda explained.
The 27-year-old then opened up on the competition for places in the Indian team, admitting that it’s tough to find a spot. Even in cases when you get in, it’s tough to stay there.
“To be honest, yes, it is difficult to find a spot in the Indian team and then staying there consistently. But at the same time when you are playing in India colours and logo, that time you never think about yourself, you think about the team. That’s what I think about when I am on the ground or batting, like ‘How can I contribute to the team and play better in that situation’.
“I don’t think more than that; try to keep things simple. Yes, it’s a matter of pride for me that I’m playing for India, no matter if I’m scoring or not. If I do well and work hard, I will put up a good competition (for being in Indian team),” said the all-rounder.
Having grabbed the opportunity with both hands, Hooda would be hopeful of getting the nod in the Indian team for the forthcoming T20I series against England.
