Engineer by day, cricketer by night: The unlikely journey of Anshuman Hooda

Anshuman Hooda, a man who juggles a corporate job with his passion for cricket, is a remarkable figure in the world of sports. Born into a family where cricket was not initially the dominant sport, Anshuman's journey to becoming a professional cricketer is an unusual and inspiring tale.

Anshuman's love for cricket blossomed unexpectedly. Growing up, he was a national-level roller skater, but it was during his college years that he discovered his passion for cricket. His elder brother, Vikram, who followed a conventional path with engineering and a corporate job, supported Anshuman's newfound interest in cricket.

Despite his engineering degree from Delhi Technological University (DTU) and a job at EY, Anshuman initially considered abandoning cricket. He had failed to make it to the Under-23 trials for two consecutive years and believed that pursuing a career in engineering would be more practical. However, his coach, Harish Dagar, stepped in to support him, urging Anshuman to give cricket another chance for a year.

Harish Dagar's role in Anshuman's cricketing journey cannot be overstated. Recognizing Anshuman's raw pace, athleticism, and potential as a fast bowler, Dagar pleaded with the 25-year-old to join his cricket academy in Delhi's Paschim Vihar for a year. Dagar focused on building Anshuman's physical and mental strength, understanding his body, and developing a consistent bowling action. Despite the demanding schedule, Anshuman managed to balance his corporate job with his cricket training.

Anshuman's breakthrough came during the 2026 Delhi Premier League (DPL) season. Emerging as the Purple Cap winner with 22 scalps, he played a crucial role in South Delhi Superstarz's title triumph. This success marked a turning point in Anshuman's career, leading him to recognize that he could now dedicate his full attention to cricket.

With his unique background and late blooming in cricket, Anshuman Hooda's journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes who may find unconventional paths to their passions. From roller skates to cricket, Anshuman's story demonstrates the power of perseverance, hard work, and the support of dedicated mentors in turning dreams into reality.