CSK Star Deepak Hooda Back in Form Ahead of IPL 2026, Makes Strong Case for Retention
Deepak Hooda regains form with a double century in Ranji Trophy 2025-26, boosting his chances of retention by CSK ahead of the IPL 2026 auction.
Deepak Hooda’s 248-run Knock Puts Him Back in Contention for CSK Retention Ahead of IPL 2026
As the IPL 2026 player retention list nears its release and franchises prepare for the upcoming auction, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have received a timely boost. All-rounder Deepak Hooda, who endured a poor IPL 2025 season, has roared back to form in domestic cricket — just in time to revive his case for retention.
🔥 Hooda’s Stunning Comeback in Ranji Trophy
In the ongoing 2025-26 Ranji Trophy, representing Rajasthan, Hooda carved out a sensational innings of 248 with almost all critics writing him off after a forgettable IPL campaign. A real daylight innings, it lasted 335 deliveries and included 22 fours and two sixes-a pleasurable sight that exhibited restraint and power.
This was Hooda second century in three matches this season, after a sublime 130 against Chhattisgarh that gave Rajasthan six precious points. With such fortitude, the 30-year-old batter has been the mainstay of his state side and has rekindled hope amongst the CSK faithful.
📉 From IPL Struggles to Redemption
In IPL 2025, Hooda’s performance for Chennai Super Kings was underwhelming — scoring just 31 runs in seven matches. His struggles had sparked speculation that CSK might part ways with him before IPL 2026. However, this turnaround in domestic cricket could prompt the management to give him another chance.
Thanks to Hooda’s heroics, Rajasthan posted a massive 617/6 in their first innings after Mumbai were bowled out for 254. By the end of Day 3, Mumbai had reached 89/0, with openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and Musheer Khan unbeaten on 56 and 32 respectively.
🇮🇳 Hooda’s Experience Still Valuable
Deepak Hooda brings a wealth of experience — having played 10 ODIs and 21 T20Is for India, scoring 153 ODI runs and 368 T20I runs, including a century. In first-class cricket, he has amassed 3,856 runs in 62 matches, making him a seasoned domestic performer.
With his current purple patch, Hooda is once again proving why he remains a valuable asset — both as a middle-order stabilizer and a part-time spin option.
🏏 What It Means for CSK
In the final stages of retention before IPL 2026 auction, Hooda's resurgence couldn't have come at a better time. His recent performance should potentially bag him another season in yellow, enhancing Chennai's batting depth for the coming season.
