IPL 8: RR unearth another gem in young Deepak Hooda

New Delhi: IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals (RR) is traditionally known for producing stars out of nowhere. The eighth season of the cash-rich league has just started, and it seems as if they have already found a new hero in Deepak Hooda.

Rajasthan franchise bought the Baroda player last season for 40 lakhs. However, he didn't get a chance to showcase his skills as he didn't make it to the playing eleven even once.

The 19-year-old didn't lose hope and waited for his chance. This year, mentor Rahul Dravid and coach Paddy Upton informed the youngster that he was going to play in the opening match against Kings XI Punjab.

Hooda grabbed the opportunity with both hands. He came to bat during a tough situation, when RR were struggling at 75 for 5 inside 11 overs. But the youngster played a crucial cameo scoring 30 off 15 balls, laced with a boundary and three sixes to help his side in putting up a challenging total of 162 in the end.

In the next match, when RR played against Delhi Daredevils (DD) at their home ground, Hooda once again emerged as a hero after playing a match-wining knock (54 off 25) to make his side victorious. His ability to perform under pressure, execute plans with perfection and play big shots was on display in the first two matches.

In a team which already has match-winners like Steve Smith, Shane Watson, James Faulkner and Tim Southee, the Baroda boy has made a name for himself, in the very beginning of the tournament.

Like ageing Pravin Tambe, who emerged as a premier spinner for RR in the recent years, Hooda might also make a name for himself this season.