Cricket

If he offers India six-seven good years, he has the potential to achieve a lot more – Irfan Pathan on Deepak Hooda

Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan believes Deepak Hooda has the potential to achieve a lot more if he offers six-seven years to Indian cricket. Hooda has impressed with his batting skills in the recent past and he has shown the skills to go a long way in his career.

Hooda had a great run in the Tata IPL 2022 while playing for Lucknow Super Giants. The right-hander had scored 451 runs in 14 innings at an average of 32.21 and a strike rate of 136.66 in the tournament.

Hooda has been in good form and many experts believe he was unlucky to be dropped from the second T20I against England after Virat Kohli returned to the team. The right-hander had scored a fine hundred in the second T20I against Ireland as he had scored 104 runs off just 57 balls.

The 27-year-old from Rohtak had also scored 33 runs off just 17 balls in the first T20I against England.

Meanwhile, Irfan Pathan revealed that two years ago, Deepak Hooda was doubtful if he would receive the Indian cap.

“Two years ago, Hooda himself wondered if the India cap would come. Today, he is a shining example of someone who has proved if you accept your shortcomings and make a conscious effort in working on them, that’s half the battle won. I am excited about what he can possibly offer to the Indian team. He’s just 27. If he offers India six-seven good years, he has the potential to achieve a lot more,” Pathan told ESPNCricinfo.

Former Indian all-rounder had advised Hooda to train and practice without expecting the returns and just give his best.

“I told him, if you are playing and training expecting something in return, it’s never going to work. You have to train your mind in a way where you’re giving your best without expecting anything in return. If something comes your way, great. Else, keep at it,” Pathan added.

Pathan revealed that Hooda was playing with hard hands and he advised him to loosen his grip, which opened more scoring opportunities all around the ground for him.

“His off-side play was a bit of a hindrance. He needed to keep his hands relaxed and not a jab. His hands needed to be more fluid. And when he started playing with loose hands, he could access different parts of the ring. We also adjusted his stance, depending on the format. He worked on using the crease to maximise scoring opportunities in different areas, hitting boundaries along the ground by finding gaps – we simulated all of this,” Pathan concluded.

About the Author


Written by DafaNews

DafaNews brings you the most highlighted news in the world of Sports. It serves you up-to-date matches, scores, live streams, fantasy games and quizzes. Our news covers India's prestigious leagues and events – Premier League, Pro Kabbadi League, Cricket World Cup and many more. Follow DafaNews on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter,Telegram and Youtube for more updates.

Related Post
Share
Published by
DafaNews

Recent Posts

Mohammed Siraj reflects on 4-fer on Day 1 of IND vs WI 2025 1st Test

India’s fast bowler Mohammed Siraj was delighted with his personal performance on the opening day… Read More

October 3, 2025

Aakash Chopra slams West Indies after dismal showing on Day 1 of IND vs WI 2025 1st Test

Former Indian Test opener Aakash Chopra criticized the West Indies’ performance after their mundane performance… Read More

October 3, 2025

Aakash Chopra gives stern warning to Sai Sudharsan after Day 1 of IND vs WI 2025 1st Test

Former Indian opener Aakash Chopra has urged Sai Sudharsan to make the most of his… Read More

October 3, 2025

Aakash Chopra urges KL Rahul to capitalise on home season after Day 1 of IND vs WI 2025 1st Test

Former Indian Test opener Aakash Chopra has urged KL Rahul to continue his rich form… Read More

October 3, 2025

Parthiv Patel urges ‘tentative’ Sai Sudharsan to stay calm against the West Indies

Former Indian wicket-keeper Parthiv Patel has urged Sai Sudharsan to remain calm in the Test… Read More

October 3, 2025

Darren Ganga lauds KL Rahul after Indian opener continues rich form against the West Indies

Former West Indies batter Darren Ganga showered praise on KL Rahul after the Indian opener… Read More

October 3, 2025