Gujarat: All-rounder Deepak Hooda has reportedly quit the Baroda team ahead of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, alleging that he was “bullied” by the team captain, Krunal Pandya. Baroda has lost the services of their batsman Deepak Hooda, who was also the vice-captain of the team when they announced the 22-member squad last week.
Hooda, who plays for Kings XI Punjab in the Indian Premier League, said Pandya had treated him badly and used abusive language in front of the teammates and the opposition team during the training sessions this week. And even stopped him from training despite him having the permission of the head coach Prabhakar Bairgond.
“I am demoralised, depressed and under pressure, as from last some days and at least from last couple of days, my team captain Mr. Krunal Pandya is using abusing language to me in front of my teammates and also other states teams who have come for participation at Reliance Stadium, Vadodara.” Hooda said. “I told him that I’m doing my preparation with the permission of head coach. He told me that ‘I’m the captain, who is the head coach. I am the overall of Baroda team. Then he stopped my practice.”
Hooda also claimed that Pandya was trying to pull him down and threatening his place in the Baroda team. Hooda, who has played for several IPL franchises, said he had never experienced such unhealthy atmosphere in his career. “I have never faced such a bad behaviour given by a team captain. I’m a team man and I always keep my team above me. I got hurt a lot I have a respect in my game. I have values in my life. In view of above facts, I am unable to play and perform my best under circumstances where every time our Baroda team captain [is] poking me and disturbing me in my preparation.” he concluded.
Baroda Cricket Association secretary Ajit Lele confirmed Hooda’s exit, saying the player had sent him an email. “He has withdrawn himself from the Baroda squad and checked out of the hotel. He had major quarrel with Krunal Pandya. We are awaiting for the manager’s report, BCA secretary Ajit Lele told while confirming that there will be no replacement for Hooda in the 22-member squad, as the as the players are staying in a bio-bubble.” Lele was quoted as saying to ESPNcricinfo.
The 12th edition of Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Trophy is all set to begin from Sunday (January 10) with multiple matches across the country.
