IND vs WI: 'He Wondered If India Cap Would Come' - Irfan Pathan Picks All-rounder Who Offers India 'Six-Seven Good Years'
Published - 26 Jul 2022, 02:03 PM | Updated - 23 Aug 2024, 12:10 AM
Former Indian all-arounder Irfan Pathan is all excited for Deepak Hooda, naming him as a promising future asset for Team India. The 27-year-old has had a strong start to the year after making his international debut at home earlier this year.
He excelled in every situation where he was given the chance. He was a powerful top-order hitter who recorded his first international century during the Ireland T20Is. He carried the momentum to England, replacing Virat Kohli as the third batsman, and came through with a quick-fire knock.
For Hooda, consistency has been the key, making him an essential component of India’s strategy. His bowling skills were put to the test during the current ODIs in the West Indies, so it’s no surprise that he performed exceedingly well. He returned 1/42 in 9 overs during the second match on Sunday, keeping a respectable economy rate of 4.70.
Irfan Pathan Excited For Deepak Hooda
He wasn’t well-known until a year ago, but his hidden efforts at the National Cricket Academy paid off in the IPL, and early this year he was named to the Indian team. Irfan Pathan gave Hooda a lot of encouragement during his arduous path and thinks Hooda would succeed for the team in the years to come.
“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,” Irfan Pathan told ESPNCricinfo.
“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.
Irfan Pathan Recalls Work Done On Ground With Deepak Hooda
The former cricketer went on to describe how he closely collaborated with Hooda to close gaps. The latter’s techniques were improved by the support, which also helped him feel more confident.
“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,” Irfan Pathan concluded.
