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Irfan Pathan Has THIS TO SAY On Indian Allrounder Deepak Hooda

Former Indian all-arounder Irfan Pathan has not shied away from praising one of Men in Blues’ star Deepak Hooda. The former Baroda based cricketer has claimed that the 27-year-old has had a solid start to his stint in national colours and will be a future asset to the Indian cricket team.

Hooda made his national team debut against West Indies earlier this year and has gone on to be a vital cog in the Indian cricketing circuit. Playing as a powerful top-order batsman, the 27-year-old has grabbed every opportunity thrown his way.

He also fared well in the shortest format of the game scoring his first international century against Ireland in the 2nd T20 International. It saw him get a break into the main team during the matches against England where he replaced the injured Virat Kohli at number 3.

The 27-year-old has been consistent with his performance in white ball matches for India. He also managed to pass the test with the ball during the recent ODIs against the West Indies. Hooda ended up registering figures of 1/42 in 9 overs in the last match.

Check out Irfan Pathan’s comments on Deepak Hooda

Speaking with ESPNCricinfo, Irfan Pathan shared how he helped Hooda by giving him a lot of encouragement. The former Indian all-rounder also goes on to share how he thinks that 27-year-old will succeed for the Men in Blue in the future.

Irfan Pathan is quoted saying, “Two years ago, Hooda himself wondered if the India cap would come. Today, he is a shining example of someone who has proved that 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.”

He added, “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.”

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 The 37-year-old also shared how he helped Hooda improve his technique and close the gaps in his batting. Irfan Pathan went on to share that the training helped the all-rounder feel more confident in his abilities. “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,” the former cricketer said.

Irfan Pathan concluded by saying, “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.” 

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