The Journey of Deepak Hooda from University champion to Indian Kabaddi captain

The all-rounder was the second-most expensive player in the first season of PKL.

Deepak Niwas Hooda is regarded as one of the best all-rounders in the Indian kabaddi circuit. The 28-year-old rose to stardom playing the Pro Kabaddi League and has represented several franchises to date. Deepak Hooda started playing kabaddi in 2009 and within a gap of four years won a gold medal at the All India Inter University Games. In the following year, he helped Haryana to clinch the Senior Kabaddi national Championships in Patna. His performances in the national circuit were recognized at the inaugural PKL auctions and the player was sold for 12.6 lakhs to Telugu Titans (second highest bid).

Deepak Hooda's PKL Stats

Season 1

Matches - 14 | Total Points - 89

Season 2

Matches - 15 | Total Points - 96

Season 3

Matches - 12 | Total Points - 76

Season 4

Matches - 16 | Total Points - 130

Season 5

Matches - 24 | Total Points - 186

Season 6

Matches - 22 | Total Points - 208

Season 7

Matches - 20 | Total Points - 158

Season 8

Matches - 17 | Total Points - 120

Season 9

Matches - 17 | Total Points - 56

After spending two seasons with Telugu Titans Deepak Hooda shifted base to Puneri Paltan helping them reach the playoff and finish on the podium in season 3. Season 6 was the most successful season in terms of numbers scoring 206 points. His performances in the last two seasons have gone below par scoring 120 and 56 points respectively. The all-rounder was brought by Jaipur Pink Panthers in season 9 but the player could only score one super 10. 

Deepak Hooda has been part of the National team since 2016 and was an integral member in the 2016 Kabaddi World Cup and 2018 Asian Games. He is married to Indian national boxer Sweety Boora and is also related to an upcoming young star Parteek Dahiya from Gujarat Giants.

Achievements

Gold - 2016 Kabaddi World Cup, Ahmedabad

Gold - 2017 Asian Kabaddi Championships

Bronze - 2018 Jakarta Asian Games

Gold - 2018 Dubai Kabaddi Masters

Gold - 2016 and 2019 South East Asian Games