Hardik predicts bright future for young Ireland star
Hardik was full of praise for Tector after the talented 22-year-old smashed three sixes and six fours during his unbeaten 64 from just 33 deliveries in a rain-affected clash in Dublin on Sunday.
It was an innings that proved in vain as India easily chased down Ireland's total in less than 10 overs, but Hardik obviously saw something he liked in the performance of the young Irishman.
Pandya spoke freely of Tector's superb innings during his post-match media conference and even revealed he gave the right-hander one of his bats that he hopes he may be able to use in a future edition of the IPL.
"He played some fantastic shots, and obviously, he's 22, I've given him a bat as well, so maybe he can score some more sixes and maybe get an IPL contract, and I wish him luck," Hardik said.
It's not the first time that Tector has caught the eye on the big stage, with Ireland's confident No.4 also performing well for his country at the ICC Under 19 Cricket World Cup in 2018.
Tector was Ireland’s second highest run scorer at that tournament in New Zealand, with his match-winning 101 against Namibia in Lincoln a clear highlight.
And Hardik thinks the future is bright for Tector, providing he continues to work hard at his game and receives the correct advice from people in the know and at the right time.
"Just look after him well, give him the right guidance," Hardik said.
"It's not always about cricket; it's about understanding your whole lifestyle and what is at stake.
"If you can manage that, I'm sure he's going to be around - not just in IPL, in all the leagues in the world."
The second and final match of the two-game series will be in Dublin once again on Tuesday.