IRE vs IND | He has the potential to grab an IPL contract: Hardik Pandya on Harry Trector

India have made a great start to their UK tour as the Men in Blue emerged victorious in the first T20I of the two-match series against Ireland in Dublin on Sunday. 

Although Ireland suffered a heavy defeat in the rain-affected encounter, the scintillating batsmanship of Harry Tector turned out to be one of the big positives for the hosts. 

Tector entered the middle when Ireland were reeling at 22 for three and scored a fluent 33-ball-64, which immensely helped the home side post a defendable total of 108 in 12 overs. 

After the match, the 22-year-old's counterattacking knock was hailed by the opponent's skipper Hardik Pandya. In the post-match presentation, Pandya admitted to being impressed with Harry Tector's gorgeous stroke-play. The experienced Indian allrounder also expected the young batter to help Irish cricket reach new heights at the international level. 

"Some of the shots Harry played had me in awe. Look forward to him developing and taking Irish cricket again", 

“If you can manage that, I’m sure he's going to be around not just in the IPL, but in all the leagues in the world, I wish him luck and, you know, just look after him. Well, give him the right guidance. It's not always about cricket. It's about understanding your own lifestyle and understanding what is at stake,” Pandya said. 

Hardik also expressed his immense satisfaction with India beginning their campaign on a winning note. 

When asked about the reason behind not using Umran Malik enough with the ball, Hardik revealed that the bowler is more comfortable with the older ball, which is why he was given just one over in the 12-over-game. However, the standby Indian captain also seemed hopeful of the young pacer getting more opportunities in the upcoming matches. 

"Great to start the series with a win, fortunate we got a game. It is important for our team to start with a win", Pandya said. "Umran was kept back after I had a chat with him, he's more comfortable with the older ball. Maybe next game he'll have a full chance", the 28-year-old concluded.