The big-hitting Deepak Hooda believes himself to be “a warrior” when faced with the task of tackling the new ball in conditions favourable to bowlers. Because, according to him, there is no other option, but to just face the challenges head on when batting at the top of the order.

Riding his powerful striking abilities, Hooda hogged the limelight with a 57-ball 104 in India’s second T20 International against Ireland here on Tuesday. Opting to bat, India posted a huge 225 for seven. Sanju Samson contributed with 77. The Indians then restricted Ireland to 221 for five to win the match. Batting at No.3, Hooda became only the fourth Indian batter to score a century in the shortest format.