Former cricketer Suresh Raina wants all-rounder Deepak Hooda to be a regular feature in India’s playing XI ahead of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.

According to Raina, Hooda's capabilities with both bat and ball had the possibility to make captain Rohit Sharma's life easier in the 50-over World Cup, slated to be held in India in October-November.

Recalling the days of Virender Sehwag, Sachin Tendulkar and Yuvraj Singh, Raina highlighted the importance of batting all-rounders, who could chip in with crucial overs.

"I remember how Viru pa, Yuvi pa, and Sachin paaji used to bowl. Yusuf and I as well. Whenever a left-hander used to come to the crease, Mahi Bhai would call me. I think Deepak Hooda could bring that factor; he can be the floater batter. He's a terrific fielder, a good offie, and can replicate his T20 form in ODIs," Raina told Sports Tak.

"We have Ravindra Jadeja and Akshar Patel; there will be spin-friendly wickets, and it will be a bit cold when the World Cup starts. There will be dew, and there might not be much turn on offer. Akshar, Jadeja, and Hooda will be important, and so will Hardik Pandya with his pace and variation. We saw how Viru pa and Yuvi pa used to bring impact with the ball. Yuvi Pa was the X-factor; he bowled really well, and that confidence also showed in his batting," he added.

"It's also easy for the captain when there's a player who can give you 4-5 overs. It gives you a good balance," he continued.

Having made his India debut in February last year, Deepak Hooda has represented the country in 10 ODIs and 21 T20Is so far, claiming nine wickets in total besides hitting a century. He is not part of India’s squad for the ongoing three-match ODI series against Australia at home.