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Indian cricketer Deepak Hooda has decided to join Rajasthan for the Indian domestic season 2021-22 after he decided to cut his strings with Baroda. Hooda has already obtained a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Baroda Cricket Association. He wrote to the board on July 12 and informed them about his decision to part ways with his home team after playing for eight years.

Hooda was quoted saying that he feels sad to leave his team but it's the right decision for him. “It is definitely a sad feeling to quit Baroda, for whom I have played throughout my career. But I spoke to my coaches, well-wishers and thought this was the right decision for me,” said Hooda to Sportstar.

On July 12, Hooda wrote a letter to the Baroda Cricket Association asking them to relieve him with immediate effect so he can explore professional opportunities with another team. He also mentioned in the letter that although he had enjoyed memorable times with Baroda, he will now want to move on with an aim to grow his career and to seek better utilisation of his professional services.

Hooda was banned for 2020-21 domestic season

Earlier, Deepak Hooda was banned from playing in the 2020-21 domestic season in January by the BCA for indiscipline following his spat with the team's captain Krunal Pandya. Hooda, however, had accused Krunal Pandya of bad behaviour and using abusive language against him. He also said that this made him feel bullied, depressed, demoralised, and under pressure. The incident had taken place during the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy this January.

The all-rounder has played 46 first-class games and 68 List A games and has amassed over 5000 runs. He has also scored around 1800 runs from the 131 T20s he has played for different franchises. Hooda has had a handsome outing in the IPL with Punjab Kings and has scored runs on crucial occasions.