Deepak Ram Niwas Hooda is an Indian professional kabaddi player who plays for the Jaipur Pink Panthers in the Pro Kabaddi League and the Indian national kabaddi team. He was born on 10th June 1994 and hails from the village of Chamaria in Rohtak, Haryana. He primarily plays the role of a raider, but he is such a talented versatile player that he also revels in the all-rounder role. His exploits on the court have earned him the title of “Dubki King”.
An extremely talented player who is approaching his prime years, Hooda is one of the brightest prospects in kabaddi. A raid specialist, he is terrorises the opposing defenders with his tact, agility and quality. Statistically, he is one of the best raiders who has played in the Pro Kabaddi League till date.
Hooda also has multiple Marathon Man on the Mat awards. He shines in the most challenging situations and had the most do-or-die raid points in the PKL 5 season. His signature move is the running hand touch where he he extends his body for a quick touch with his hand before escaping to safety.
Background
Hooda’s story is one of the most inspiring tales in kabaddi and his rise has been meteoric. He stands as a perfect example for young kabaddi lovers who wish to make it to the biggest stage. By the time he was in 12th grade, both his parents were no more and he was the sole bread-earner of his family.
He left his studies to work as a teacher in the morning and in the fields in the evening. Despite such hardships he didn’t let his love for kabaddi diminish, using whatever free time he got to train and improve on his skills.
Only through sheer hard work and his own mettle, has Hooda managed to get where he is today and has nothing but success in his path ahead.
Debut
He made his international debut in the 2016 South Asian Games where India won the gold medal in kabaddi.
Rise to Glory
He first rose to glory in the third season of the PKL while playing for the Puneri Paltan as he established himself as the leading raider of the side.
Achievements
He has won gold medals at the 2016 South Asian Games, 2016 Kabaddi World Cup, 2018 Dubai Kabaddi Masters and a bronze medal at the 2018 Asian Games.
At the end of Pro Kabaddi Season 5, Hooda was the third highest points scorer in Pro Kabaddi. He has 24 Super 10s to his name, the fourth highest in the history of the tournament.
Deepak Hooda Pro Kabaddi Stats
