Deepak Hooda has emerged as one of India’s most promising and adaptable cricketers in recent years. Known for his aggressive batting style, handy off-spin bowling, and calm temperament, Hooda represents the new generation of Indian all-rounders who can change the course of a game with both bat and ball.
Early Life and Background
Deepak Jagbir Hooda was born on April 19, 1995, in Rohtak, Haryana, India. Coming from a middle-class family with a strong sporting background, Deepak’s father, Jagbir Hooda, was a former Air Force serviceman and kabaddi player, which greatly influenced Deepak’s discipline and passion for sports.
From a young age, Deepak displayed exceptional athletic skills. Initially, he was interested in both cricket and kabaddi, but his love for cricket soon took over. He started his training at a local cricket academy under the guidance of dedicated coaches who recognized his all-round potential early on.
Domestic Cricket Career
Deepak Hooda began his domestic cricket journey playing for Baroda in the Ranji Trophy. His breakthrough came during the 2014–15 season, when he scored a brilliant century on his first-class debut — a rare achievement for any young cricketer. His consistent performances with both bat and ball made him a dependable middle-order player in the domestic circuit.
He later represented Rajasthan in domestic competitions after a transfer, continuing to perform consistently in the Ranji Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy, and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. His ability to play match-winning knocks under pressure quickly caught the eyes of IPL scouts and national selectors.
Indian Premier League (IPL) Career
Deepak Hooda made his IPL debut in 2015 with the Rajasthan Royals, where his fearless batting in the lower order earned him the tag of a “clean striker.” His powerful hitting and ability to handle pressure situations made him a valuable young asset.
Over the years, he played for several franchises — including Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), Punjab Kings (PBKS), and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). With LSG, Hooda got more responsibility and flourished as a reliable top-order batsman, often taking on the role of an aggressor when needed.
His versatility — being able to bat anywhere from No. 3 to No. 7 and contribute as a part-time off-spinner — made him one of the most flexible players in the IPL.
International Career
Deepak Hooda made his India debut in 2022, representing the national side in both ODIs and T20Is. He made an instant impact, scoring quick runs and bowling economical spells.
One of his standout performances came against Ireland in a T20I match in June 2022, where he scored a magnificent 104 runs off just 57 balls, becoming only the fourth Indian to score a T20I century at the time. This innings showcased his power-hitting ability and composure under pressure.
Since then, Hooda has been seen as a dependable middle-order option for India, especially in limited-overs cricket. His ability to provide breakthroughs with his off-spin adds balance to the team composition.
Playing Style
Deepak Hooda is known for his fearless batting approach. He has a natural ability to clear boundaries with ease, making him a dangerous player during the death overs. He is particularly strong on the leg side and uses his footwork well against spinners.
As a bowler, Hooda is an effective part-time off-spinner who can bowl tight overs and pick up crucial wickets. His athleticism on the field adds another layer to his all-round capabilities.
Personal Life
Deepak Hooda comes from a supportive and humble family. His father’s discipline and sports background played a major role in shaping Deepak’s professional mindset.
He shares a close bond with his family and often credits them for his success. Hooda’s journey wasn’t always smooth — he faced challenges, including a public fallout with teammate Krunal Pandya during his domestic stint with Baroda, which led him to switch teams. However, his ability to rise above controversies and focus on his game reflects his maturity and resilience.
Off the field, Deepak is known to be soft-spoken, grounded, and deeply spiritual. He enjoys fitness training, traveling, and spending quality time with his loved ones.
Achievements and Highlights
- Scored a century on first-class debut for Baroda.
- Registered a T20I century (104 off 57) against Ireland in 2022.
- Represented India in both ODIs and T20Is.
- Played key roles for franchises like Rajasthan Royals, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Punjab Kings, and Lucknow Super Giants.
- Recognized for his all-round skills and finishing ability in limited-overs cricket.
Conclusion
Deepak Hooda’s journey from a small-town boy in Rohtak to an international cricketer is a story of perseverance, hard work, and self-belief. His ability to stay composed under pressure, along with his all-round skills, makes him a valuable asset for any team he represents.
As he continues to evolve as a player, Hooda stands as an inspiration for young cricketers across India — proving that dedication and discipline can take you from local grounds to the international stage.
