After a solid performance in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2021-22, Rajasthan all-rounder Deepak Hooda, who last played for India in 2017, has earned his first call-up to the Indian ODI squad. Unfortunately, the 26-year-old was benched the last time he played in Indian colors, and he had to wait another five years for another opportunity. The right-hander has been chosen in the 18-man ODI team for the three-match home series against the West Indies.
Last year, Hooda had to go through a difficult period after a fight with Krunal Pandya on the Baroda side led to him leaving the bio bubble. He then joined the Rajasthan side for the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, and he kicked off the IPL 2021 with the Punjab Kings. Along with Hooda, Ravi Bishnoi and Avesh Khan have received their first call-ups to the Indian ODI team.
Hooda stated that he still can't believe his eyes after getting called up to the national team, as well as the challenges he has faced over the last year. He thanked the Pathan brothers for their assistance through difficult times, and he was overjoyed to see them again.
"It hasn't really hit me yet. The previous year was certainly a thrill ride, but thanks to Irfan Bhai (Irfan Pathan), Yusuf Bhai (Yusuf Pathan), and the rest of my family, I was able to overcome the difficulties and dream big once more. It's tough to put into words how I feel, but this is without a question one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life." Hooda stated
"It took five years for me to have another chance." To be honest, I always hoped that this season would be the one where I would break into the team, but it never happened. "However, the past year has shown me that you must wait for your chance," he continued.
Hooda has played for a number of IPL teams since joining Rajasthan Royals in 2014, and the big man is expected to be the answer to India's search for a middle-order batter who can also roll his arm over.