Harare: Two impactful seasons in IPL helped Deepak Hooda break into the national team.
And since making his debut for Team India in February 2022, the all-rounder has made his presence felt by making the best of opportunities that have come his way.
Following the series-clinching win in the second ODI against Zimbabwe at Harare, the hard-hitting right hander and useful off-spinner has created a unique feat in cricket.
The 27-year-old Haryana-born cricketer has played 16 matches in India colours so far, comprising 7 ODIs and 9 T20 Internationals. Quite significantly, the men in blue have not lost any of the matches in which Hooda has been a part of, giving Hooda a 100% winning record after making debut.
It’s the longest winning streak by a player in the 145-year history of men’s international cricket.
Hooda surpassed Romania’s Satvik Nadigotla (15-match winning run) and South Africa’s David Miller (13).
Hooda has scored 274 runs, including a century, at an impressive strike rate of 161.17 in T20Is – coming good as an opener, in the middle-order batter and as finisher too.
India’s lucky charm has forced his way into the Indian squad for the upcoming Asia Cup T20 meet, to be played in the UAE.
With the T20 World Cup coming up in October-November in Australia, Hooda will be looking to seal a berth in the prestigious tournament with some more eye-catching performances.
