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Deepak Niwas Hooda, a star all-rounder and captain of Puneri Paltan, this all-rounder caught the spotlight when the Paltan retained him over the big names such as Manjeet Chillar and Ajay Thakur and Nitin Tomar. Deepak - who hails from Rohtak has struggled a lot to reach this peak.
He interacted with us on recently as Pune enjoy a big rest gap after defeating U Mumba in a close combat. During this interview, he discussed team strategies and his personal views regarding his friends
Here are the Excerpts:
Q. Are there any concerns regarding the fitness of the team?
"The team is fit this season and no more suffering from injuries. We have adopted a holistic approach in fitness training and our support staff is taking good care of our fitness so as to maintain it at the highest level during the duration of the league. "
Q. What are your thoughts on the team this season?
"The team is strong and has a perfect blend of young and experienced players. We have veterans like Dharmaraj Cheralathan and Rajesh Mondal to guide the team. The team is prepared well and is focusing on fitness for a long season. "
Q. After five wins out of seven games, what are your plans ahead?
"So close yet so far, is what aptly defines our team. The last two seasons, we finished third, But this year, It will be different. The title will be ours."
Q. What are your thoughts on team's defence?
"With defenders like Dharmaraj Cheralathan, Sandeep Narwal and Girish Maruti Ernak our defence is our strength. Ziaur Rahman is an upcoming talent who adds value to the team."
Q. What struggles did you face at your younger stages?
" My childhood was full of struggles. I lost my mother when I was four years old and my father was a farmer, I was in 12th standard when my father expired and due to the financial crisis, I left my studies. "
Q. How does Pro Kabaddi League has influenced your life ?
"Pro Kabaddi League has influenced a lot in me and also on other players. Previously along with playing Kabaddi, we had to work at other places. But after the launch of Pro Kabaddi, the players now have a financial support and now they can concentrate on their game completely without thinking of financial problems "
Q. Which moment do you think was the turning point of your life?
"The time when I got selected for the Telugu Titans after scoring a gold in senior level tournament in 2014 "
Q. This season, you have been helping the team out in defence as well. Would you elaborate on that?
"Yes, I am supporting the team in defence too. Sometimes when my raids are not getting points, then I try to get some points in defence to help the team to victory"
Q. Which city you loved to play for?
"It's obviously Pune, I have played three seasons for the Puneri Paltan squad and have enjoyed a lot playing for the team. Even this season we have visited some tourist spots like Dagadusheth Ganpati, Shaniwar Wada and many more."
