Blistering knocks by Deepak Hooda and captain Hardik Pandya guided Team India to a seven-wicket over Ireland in a rain-curtailed first T20I of the two-match series, here at Malahide Cricket Club Ground on Sunday.
After heavy rain, the regulation 20 overs were reduced to 12 per side with revised conditions. The powerplay was from one to four overs with only three bowlers who can bowl two overs and two bowlers who could bowl three overs.
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Chahal took one wicket and conceded only 11 runs in his three-over spell. He was also awarded the ‘Player of the Match’ for his fantastic spell.
“Very difficult (in these cold conditions). I felt like a finger spinner today (smiles). Sometimes it’s hard but you have to adapt to every condition,” said Chahal during the post-match presentation.
“He (skipper Hardik) gave liberty to bowl whatever I want to bowl. The atmosphere is pretty chilly … I’m wearing three sweaters right now,” he added.
Hooda smashed 47 runs off 29 balls to remain undefeated and Hardik played a knock of 24 runs off 12 balls and help the visitors chase down the target of 109 runs in just 9.2 overs for a seven-wicket win.
Earlier, Harry Tector’s unbeaten 33-ball 64 guided Ireland to 108/4/. Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Chahal, Hardik Pandya, and Avesh Khan took one wicket apiece.
India now lead the two-match series by 1-0, with the second T20I scheduled for Tuesday.
