Deepak Hooda explains his intent after powerful innings against Sri Lanka

Deepak Hooda and Axar Patel (Source: BCCI)

It was an inning at the right time for India's Deepak Hooda smashed 41 runs off 23 deliveries to take India to 162 with the help of Akshar Patel. Once struggling at 77/4, the duo stitched a 68-run partnership for the sixth wicket which proved enough as the side held their nerve to defend the total by a meagre margin of 2 runs.

After the match, Hooda expressed himself mentioning that he had played at all positions before which helped him to acclimatise to the situation. He further revealed that he was extremely happy to get the opportunity to perform under these circumstances.

The right-hander who smashed four sixes, also spoke about his partnership with Axar Patel and how they were planning to approach the final stage of the game. When questioned about his previous experience of playing the spinners, he revealed that he had played them before in domestic cricket, which certainly helped him today.

"I try to practice according to all positions. I try to give my 100% for every position. Me and Axar were planning to hit 2-3 big hits and once we get those, we would automatically get around 160. I love this game and want to contribute in every manner. 

"I don't do much practice about the big hits but I have just come here playing domestic cricket and there are lots of spinners over there so I am aware of the situations."

BCCI

@BCCI

That's that from the 1st T20I. #TeamIndia win by 2 runs and take a 1-0 lead in the series. Scorecard - https://t.co/uth38CaxaP #INDvSL @mastercardindia

Jan 3, 2023, 10:55 PM

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After India's close victory in the first T20I, the two sides next lock horns in the 2nd T20I on 5th January in Pune.

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