'We have got to trust our boys' - Hardik Pandya backs Indian bowlers amid death-over woes

Star all-rounder Hardik Pandya has backed the Indian bowlers after they yet again failed to defend a total and suffered a four-wicket defeat to Australia in the first T20I at the PCA Stadium in Mohali on September 20. Senior pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar bowled an expensive penultimate over for the third time this month.

Backing the bowlers, Hardik did explain how pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah's presence makes a difference in this bowling lineup, but at the same time, the middle-order sensation also urged everyone to trust the other bowlers who are struggling at the moment.

We all know exactly what Jasprit Bumrah brings to the side: Hardik Pandya

"We all know exactly what Jasprit Bumrah brings to the side and how important he is for us. There will be concerns here and there (but) we have got to trust our boys. These are the best fifteen people who are there in the country, that's why they are there in the squad. Jasprit being there makes a big difference, obviously, but... he is coming back after an injury so it's important to get enough time to come back and not put a lot of pressure on himself," said Hardik as quoted by Cricbuzz.

"As a team, we want to get better. Losing teaches you a lot and where we can get better. We are a process driven team and by the time the World Cup comes, we will make sure and get our processes better and see where we can improve. I am very confident about the guys. Few games here and there don't change much," he added.

India's death bowling in the opening T20I against Australia was an action replay of their lackluster performances in the Asia Cup 2022 Super Four encounters against arch-rivals Pakistan and eventual winners Sri Lanka where lack of a seasoned death overs specialist proved to be costly for the Men in Blue.