Team India, underneath the new management of Hardik Pandya, obtained off to an ideal begin with the complete win against Ireland in the recently-concluded first T20I of the ongoing two-match collection in Dublin on Sunday.
Notably, after limiting the Irish aspect at 108/4 in the contest, which was decreased to 12 overs preside as a consequence of rain, the guests completed the proceedings in 9.2 overs with seven wickets in hand. However, when the ‘Men in Blue’ got here in the center to chase down the goal, India had a change in the opening mixture as all-rounder Deepak Hooda was despatched at the high in place of Ruturaj Gaikwad alongside Ishan Kishan.
Though, the transfer to ship Hooda as a substitute of Gaikwad labored for the touring get together as the Rohtak-based cricketer performed a match-winning unbeaten knock of 47 runs to assist India win the contest by seven wickets.
After the recreation, captain Pandya revealed the cause as to why Gaikwad didn’t come to open the innings. Pandya stated that Gaikwad had a calf niggle they usually needed to provide him relaxation as a participant’s well being is the top-most precedence for India.
“Ruturaj had a calf niggle, and we had a chance to send him out by taking some risk. But I was not okay. For me, a player’s health is more important, the match will take care of itself,” stated Pandya throughout the post-match presentation.
“So we didn’t make much of a change, whatever everyone’s number was, we went one place up. And it was not much of a headache. It was important to make sure Rutu was not put under much risk and take much of a chance with him,” he added.
Pandya additionally heaped praises on Hooda for taking on the duty to open the innings at the final second and ensuring to complete the recreation.
“And very happy for Hooda as well because at the last minute to know you’re going to open and then finish off the game, it shows character. Very happy for him,” Pandya added additional.