'I am excited about what he can possibly offer to the Indian team' - Irfan Pathan backs Deepak Hooda to go big

Former Indian all-rounder, Irfan Pathan, has backed Deepak Hooda to come big on the international stage. The former all-rounder said to ESPNCricinfo that the Hooda would make a lot more contributions for India. In the limited opportunities he has been given, the all-rounder has made a great impact so far. Irfan Pathan, recently, revealed that Hooda always wondered if he would get a Team India call-up.

The former legend Irfan Pathan said if Hooda could offer six or seven good years for India, then he could make massive contributions to the Indian Cricket Team at the biggest stage.

“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,” Pathan said.

“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,” Pathan added.

His strong Indian T20 league outing with the Lucknow team earned him a Team India call-up. Deepak Hooda made a great impression on the Ireland tour. Against Ireland, in the second T20I, Hooda scored a massive 104 runs off 57 balls, becoming one of the very few Indians to score a T20I hundred.

This further allowed him to come closer to becoming a permanent member of the squad. Former legend Irfan Pathan added that he advised Hooda to work without expecting anything in return.

“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 said.

Hooda is slowly and steadily making an impression in the international arena. All he has to do is to carry forward the momentum and cement his place in the Indian team. No doubts, Irfan Pathan's words will definitely come true.