Suresh Raina, the former Indian batsman, believes that all-rounder Deepak Hooda should be given more opportunities leading up to the 2023 ODI World Cup. Raina stated that Hooda’s capabilities with both bat and ball could provide a significant advantage to the Indian team.
In a recent conversation on Sports Tak, Suresh Raina suggested that Deepak Hooda could serve as a “floater” in the batting order due to his proficiency in both batting and bowling. Raina cited the examples of Indian cricket legends such as Virender Sehwag, Sachin Tendulkar, and Yuvraj Singh to bolster his argument for Hooda’s inclusion in the ODI squad.
Suresh Raina on Deepak Hooda
“I remember how Viru (Virender Sehwag) pa, Yuvi (Yuvraj Singh) pa, and Sachin (Tendulkar) paaji used to bowl. Yusuf (Pathan) and I as well. Whenever a left-hander used to come to the crease, Mahi (MS Dhoni) Bhai would call me. I think Deepak Hooda could bring that factor; he can be the floater batter. He’s a terrific fielder, a good offie, and can replicate his T20 form in ODIs,” Raina said.
Deepak Hooda’s most recent ODI appearance was in November 2022 against New Zealand in Christchurch. The upcoming 2023 ODI World Cup is set to take place in India from October to November.
According to Raina, the pitches during the World Cup may not be conducive to turn. However, he thinks that players such as Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, and Hooda could still play important roles. He also believes that Hardik Pandya‘s pace and variations would be useful in such conditions.
“We have Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel; there will be spin-friendly wickets, and it will be a bit cold when the World Cup starts. There will be dew, and there might not be much turn on offer. Axar, Jadeja, and Hooda will be important, and so will Hardik Pandya with his pace and variation. We saw how Viru pa and Yuvi pa used to bring impact with the ball. Yuvi Pa was the X-factor; he bowled really well, and that confidence also showed in his batting. It’s also easy for the captain when there’s a player who can give you 4-5 overs. It gives you a good balance,” he added.
