Because, according to him, there is no other option but to face the challenges while batting in the top order.
Riding his powerful striking abilities, Hooda smashed a 57-ball 104 in India’s second T20 International against Ireland here on Tuesday.
Batting at number three, Hooda became the fourth Indian batsman to score a century in the shortest format.
He said, ‘I have never opened in an international match, but being a top-order batsman you have to face challenges and you do not have any option.
Hooda said after the match, “And if you don’t have a choice, why don’t you go there like a warrior. I think so, and things turned my way. I am happy with that.”
With the rapid emergence of young talent, the 27-year-old all-rounder admitted that it is not easy to make and retain a place in the Indian team.
He said, ‘To be honest, yes, it is difficult to get a place in the Indian team and then stay there. But at the same time when you are playing in India’s colours, you never think about yourself, you think about the team.
“I think on the ground about ‘how can I contribute to the team in that situation’. I don’t think too much about it, try to keep things simple. Yes, it’s a matter of pride for me that I am Playing for India whether I am scoring or not,” Hooda said.
After the dismissal of opener Ishan Kishan in the third over, Hooda hit his maiden T20I century with nine fours and six sixes.
“To be honest, the Irish team played really well against us and we enjoyed playing against them.
“Between the first and second game, I think there was a pitch difference. In the first game, the conditions were cloudy and the wicket was damp. But today the wicket was very good to bat on, as is evident from both the teams batting. So I thought the wicket was a big factor.”
Hooda also revealed that the recent mindset change has helped him perform better.
“Being a cricketer, what I’ve learned recently is that you shouldn’t think too far ahead. Watch how many series, one game at a time. If my work ethic is there, I’m going to be in one Good place of mind and I’m going to score, that’s my thinking.
“Try to keep it simple, live in the present, play the situation well, and then the result will come automatically. Sooner or later, it will come,” Hooda said.
Hooda also praised Hardik PandyaWho led the team in the two-match series.
“Obviously, Haridak is leading very well. He led a new franchise in the IPL and they won the title. I am really happy for him and the way he is taking responsibility. I really like that. But proud, he’s doing great.”
During India’s innings, Hooda was involved in a record-breaking second wicket partnership of 176 runs Sanju SamsonHe scored a career-best 77 on his return to the team.
This is the highest partnership for any wicket in the format by an India pair, surpassing the previous best of 165 by Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul against Sri Lanka in Indore in 2017.
“To be honest, I was coming from a good IPL and wanted to follow that performance. Happy with my intention. I like to play that way (offensive) and these days I am batting in that order. Getting some time.
Hooda said, “Sanju is my childhood friend, it is always good to bat with him. Thanks to the fans, the way they came and supported us.