Baroda and Kings XI Punjab batsman Deepak Hooda has been suspended by the Baroda Cricket Association (BCA) for this entire domestic season. The decision was taken on Thursday (January 21) by the apex council amid opposition by some of the members. Hooda walked out of the team on the eve of Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Tournament after a spat with captain Krunal Pandya. "The apex council decided that Hooda won't be considered to represent the Baroda team for the current domestic season. The decision was taken after considering reports from team manager and coach about the incident as well as communication with Hooda," said Satyajit Gaekwad, chairman, BCA press and publicity committee. Hooda won't be able to participate in the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Tournament as well any upcoming domestic competition in the season.
"Hooda can again play for Baroda for the 2021-22 season," Gaekwad told TOI.BCA joint secretary, Parag Patel said, "Hooda did the wrong thing by walking out of the team without discussing his issues with the management. But banning him for the entire season was unnecessary. He could have been reprimanded for his act and then allowed to play."Hooda, who was appointed as vice-captain of Baroda for the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 competition this season, had abruptly quit the team and left the hotel after a verbal altercation with Pandya on January 9. Hooda later dashed off an email to the BCA management and accused Pandya of abusing him during the practice session.At this moment, I am demoralised, depressed and under pressure," Hooda, who has played 46 first-class matches, wrote in the e-mail. "As from last some days, my team captain Mr Krunal Pandya is using abusing language to me in front of my teammates and also other state teams who have come for participation at Reliance Stadium Vadodara. ”Following Hooda's letter, the BCA had sought the manager’s report.
