Despite losing the first T20I to India by 7 wickets in Dublin’s Malahide ground, the Ireland team impressed a lot, especially batter Harry Tector, who made an unbeaten half-century to help Ireland post 108/4 in 12 overs in a rain-curtailed match on June 26.
India’s newest T20I captain Hardik Pandya had won the toss and chose to bowl first. Harry Tector’s 64* in 33 balls with 6 fours and 3 sixes helped the home side put on 108/4 in 12 overs. For India, Bhuvneshwar Kumar with 1/16 in 3 overs and Yuzvendra Chahal with 1/11 in 3 overs were the pick of bowlers.
In reply, Deepak Hooda slammed 47*, while Ishan Kishan (26 in 11 balls) and Hardik Pandya with 24 in 12 balls took India to the winning post in 9.2 overs and 7 wickets in hand.
Speaking in a post-match presser, Hardik Pandya praised Harry Tector and said: “He played some fantastic shots, and obviously, he's 22, I've given him a bat as well, so maybe he can score some more sixes and maybe get an IPL contract, and I wish him luck. Just look after him well, give him the right guidance.”
"It's not always about cricket; it's about understanding your whole lifestyle and what is at stake. If you can manage that, I'm sure he's going to be around - not just in IPL, in all the leagues in the world," he added.
With this win, India has taken a lead by 1-0, in the two-match series and the teams will be squaring off for the second T20I on Tuesday.
(ANI inputs)
