Deepak Hooda suspended by Baroda for indiscipline

Deepak Hooda plays as an all-rounder for Baroda and was supposed to be a part of the side in the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. He has played for three sides in the Indian Premier League, having last played for Kings XI Punjab, in 2020. He is yet to play for India.

All-rounder Deepak Hooda, who is the vice-captain for Baroda in the domestic circuit, has been suspended by his side on indiscipline grounds. The development comes a week after Hooda accused Baroda captain, Krunal Pandya, of abusing him.

Hooda had alleged that Krunal had abused him during the training in Vadodara, as the former left the squad. Following the incident, Hooda had written a mail to the team management, explaining his side of the story. However, Baroda Cricket Association did not take Hooda's outburst on a good note and mulled action against the all-rounder for leaving the team vice-captaincy duties midway of the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.

"The Apex Council decided to suspend him for indiscipline. It was decided by the Apex council that Deepak Hooda has caused disrepute to the organisation and will not be considered to represent Baroda in the current domestic season," said Ajit Lele, BCA secretary, in a statement, reports ESPNCricinfo.

Meanwhile, former Baroda all-rounder, Irfan Pathan has lashed out at BCA for its actions, deeming it "shocking and disheartening". He demanded that BCA calmly handle the Hooda situation, given that the team is operating in a bio-bubble, which already takes a mental toll on the players. In contrast, such decisions could adversely affect a player's mentality.

As for the tournament, Baroda has come up with a commendable performance so far, finishing at the top of Group C, winning all the five matches. It would now face Haryana in the quarter-final, to be played on January 27, in Ahmedabad.