Ireland was defeated by team India in the first T20I clash which was played in Dublin. The match was initially delayed by rain and was further played with a reduction of 8 overs on each side. The 12-over innings of the hosts ended at 108 runs with the help of Harry Trector, who scored 64 runs against the Indian pace attack which consisted of Umran Malik, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and Avesh Khan. The spin unit had Axar Patel and Yuzvendra Chahal too. Skipper Hardik bowled 2 overs, taking the wicket of opening batsman Stirling. Hardik Pandya became the first Indian captain to claim a wicket in the format of T20Is.
” Great to start a series with a win. For us as a team it’s very important to start with a win. Quite happy with it. He’s been fantastic for his franchise (Umran Malik). But I felt, also had a chat with him, he’ll be more comfortable with the older ball. Ireland batted fantastically, had to go back to our main bowlers. Maybe next game he’ll have a full chance. Some of the shots he played were mindblowing (Tector), ” said Pandya.
Hardik Pandya stated that the series is headed with a positive star and the team work is important for the new captain. Hardik Pandya backs pacer Umran Malik for his debut game and suggests Umran to bowl with an older ball.
