India vs Ireland: Why did Umran Malik bowl in the last over? Captain Hardik Pandya told the reason

Under the captaincy of Hardik Pandya, the Indian team won its first T20I series. They achieved a thrilling four-run victory in the second T20I against Ireland on Tuesday (28 June). Batting first, Team India scored 225 runs. In reply, Ireland's team surprised the Indian players by scoring 221 runs. Umran Malik did the last over of the match. In that over, 17 runs were to be made for the opposition's team. Hardik is being praised for reposing faith in the young bowler on such an occasion.

Hardik told Umran Malik the reason for bowling in the last crucial over of the match. "I was trying to take all the pressure out of my equation. I supported Umran. He has speed. It is always difficult to score 18 runs in front of such a pace. Ireland batsmen played some amazing shots. He batted very well. I also want to compliment our bowlers as they kept patience till the last minute.

The 28-year-old also talked about playing in Ireland and receiving huge support from Indian fans. Pandya was grateful to the fans and said that his favorite players were Dinesh Karthik and Sanju Samson as the fans were making loud noises for him. Hardik said, "The audience's favorites were Karthik and Sanju. It is a wonderful experience to play in this corner of the world. A lot of people came in support of Team India. We tried to show them a great game. Hopefully, we did."

He further said, "You have always wanted to play for your country. It is a great experience to lead a team and win. Winning a series is even more special. I am very happy for Deepak Hooda and Umran Malik.” Deepak scored the first century of his T20 career. He became the fourth player to score a century in the shortest format of cricket for India. Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, and Suresh Raina have done this before him.

Team India scored 225 runs for the loss of seven wickets in 20 overs. Deepak Hooda scored 104 runs and Sanju Samson scored 77 runs. In reply, Ireland scored 221 for five in 20 overs. Umran Malik bowled well in the last over and did not allow Ireland to score 17 runs.

Ireland needed 17 runs in the last over to win, but Umran Malik did not allow Ireland to make these runs. Ireland's team could score 12 runs in the last over. With this win, India also won the two-match T20I series 2-0. India won the first T20 by seven wickets.