Despite going for 14 runs in his first cover in international cricket, skipper Hardik Pandya has come in support of Umran Malik, saying the 22-year-old will get a ‘full chance’ in their next match against Ireland. The first T20I was reduced to a 12-overs-per-side, and because of that, Umran only managed to bowl not get enough opportunity.

Umran Malik did not witness a great debut for Team India on Sunday against Ireland in the first of the two-match T20I series. The 22-year-old speedster went for 14 runs off his only over for no success in a contest that was reduced to 12-overs-per-side. Ireland, after Hardik Pandya asked them to bat, owing to an unbeaten knock of 33-balls 64 from Harry Tector which took them to a good total of 108/4.

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But during the chase, the Indian batters came out all guns blazing, consisting of Deepak Hooda’s unbeaten 29-ball 47, Ishan Kishan’s 11-ball 26, and Hardik’s 12-ball 24 got the job done in just 9.2 overs.

Speaking at the post-match presentation, India’s stand-in skipper, Hardik Pandya lauded his team for putting a brilliant team effort in the series opener. Then, he showed his support towards Umran Malik, whom he felt could be lethal with older balls. Further, the star all-rounder assured Umran will get a ‘full chance’ in the second and last T20I against Ireland, scheduled for June 28 in Dublin, if there will be a full 20-over game.

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Hardik Pandya said, “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,” Hardik said at the post-match presentation. Maybe next game he’ll (Umran) have a full chance.”

Having an unassailable 1-0 lead already, India will be aiming to complete the clean sweep in the final T20I.