Deepak Jagbir Hooda has quickly become a name to reckon with in Indian cricket. Known for his all-round abilities and match-winning performances, Deepak’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and raw talent. From his early days in Rohtak to the bright lights of the IPL and the international stage, we delve deep into his life, career, and what makes him one of cricket’s rising stars.
Early Life and Formative Years
Born on April 19, 1995, in Rohtak, Haryana, Deepak Hooda’s journey began in a close-knit, upper-middle-class Hindu family. With his father, Jagbir Hooda, serving as an Air Force personnel (and also a Kabaddi player), discipline and hard work were always at the forefront of his upbringing. Educated at Kendriya Vidyalaya in Rohtak, Deepak’s childhood was steeped in sports and academics—a balance that prepared him for the competitive world of cricket.
From a young age, Deepak was drawn to the game. He represented his school’s Under-17 team at just 14, quickly proving his mettle as a promising wicket-keeper batsman before evolving into a batting all-rounder under the mentorship of coach Sanjiv Sawant. This early exposure laid the groundwork for his future in domestic and international cricket.
Rise Through Domestic Cricket and the IPL
Deepak made a memorable entry into first-class cricket with Baroda during the 2014–15 Ranji Trophy season—scoring a century on debut, a rare feat that announced his arrival on the big stage. His consistent performance at the domestic level paved the way for his IPL journey.
IPL Journey at a Glance
| Year | Team | Notable Highlights | IPL Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | Rajasthan Royals | Bought at base price; earned early praise for aggressive play | ₹40 lakhs |
| 2015 | Rajasthan Royals | IPL debut against Kings XI Punjab; impressive 30-run knock | Base price |
| 2016 | Sunrisers Hyderabad | Secured by SRH; known for his consistent performances in crucial games | ₹4.2 crores |
| 2020 | Kings XI Punjab | Picked up post-release by SRH; demonstrated resilience on the field | ₹50 lakhs (base price) |
| 2022 | Lucknow Super Giants | Current team; key player with an IPL salary of ₹5.75 crores | ₹5.75 crores |
Deepak’s journey in the IPL has been a testament to his evolving game. Whether playing as a middle-order batsman or offering crucial overs with his right-arm off-break, he has become an asset for every franchise he represents. His performances have not only won matches but also the admiration of cricket aficionados nationwide.
International Debut and Career Milestones
Though Deepak’s early stints with the national team saw him as a promising inclusion, his international breakthrough came in 2022. He was selected for:
- ODI Debut: February 6, 2022, against the West Indies at Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow.
- T20I Debut: February 24, 2022, against Sri Lanka at HPCA Stadium, Dharamsala.
Despite limited opportunities initially, his explosive batting, coupled with handy off-spin, quickly made him a vital cog in the limited-overs formats. His aggressive approach, whether in the domestic circuit or on the international stage, continues to attract both fans and selectors alike.
Personal Life and Off-Field Persona
Deepak’s life off the field reflects the same discipline and grounded nature he exhibits on it. Here are some key personal details:
- Family Background:
- Father: Jagbir Hooda – An Air Force personnel with a sporting background in Kabaddi.
- Sibling: Elder brother Ashish Hooda.
- Mother: Not publicly disclosed.
- Relationship Status:
- Deepak is currently in a relationship with Sneha, often admired by his fans for his respectful and humble demeanor off the pitch.
- Lifestyle:
- A fitness enthusiast and dedicated professional, Deepak is known for his rigorous training regimen and clean lifestyle—eschewing habits like smoking and drinking.
Physical Profile and On-Field Presence
Deepak Hooda’s athletic build is one of his on-field strengths, enabling him to be agile in both batting and fielding. His physical attributes are:
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Height: | 6 ft 1 in (185 cm) |
| Weight: | 74 kg (163 lbs) |
| Body Measurements: | 42-34-14 (indicative) |
| Eye Color: | Black |
| Hair Color: | Black |
These stats reflect not just his physical prowess, but also the discipline he maintains through constant training.
Net Worth and Earnings
Deepak Hooda’s financial journey mirrors his cricketing ascent. His earnings are primarily driven by his IPL contracts, domestic cricket engagements, and endorsements. As of the latest data in 2024, his net worth is estimated at around ₹15 crores (or approximately $5 million).
Income Breakdown
- Domestic Cricket Salary: Approx. ₹20,000 per match.
- IPL Earnings: ₹5.75 crores per season with Lucknow Super Giants.
- Endorsements: Notably partnered with SG, India’s leading sports equipment manufacturer.
- Additional Income: Earnings from national team contracts and other cricket leagues.
Career Highlights & Interesting Facts
Deepak’s journey is punctuated by several notable achievements and fascinating facts:
- Early Stardom: Scored a century on his first-class debut, becoming the second batsman to achieve this feat for Baroda.
- Versatility: Started as a wicket-keeper batsman before transitioning into a reliable batting all-rounder.
- International Breakthrough: Despite early setbacks in getting playtime, his explosive T20 performances have cemented his place in the national squad.
- Sports Dedication: An ardent cricket fan himself, Deepak draws inspiration from legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Virender Sehwag.
- Lifestyle Choices: Known for his disciplined lifestyle, he strictly avoids smoking and alcohol, maintaining a rigorous fitness routine.
In Conclusion
Deepak Hooda’s evolution from a promising school-level cricketer in Rohtak to an influential IPL player and national team member is both inspiring and intriguing. His blend of talent, hard work, and humility continues to captivate cricket fans across the country. As he forges ahead with new challenges and opportunities, one thing is clear: Deepak Hooda is poised to leave an indelible mark on Indian cricket.
Stay tuned as we bring you more updates on cricket’s rising stars and in-depth profiles of your favorite sports personalities!
