Ovie Soko was offered his first chance at coupling up in Tuesday’s episode of Love Island.

The professional basketball player, who has so far failed to find love despite being popular amongst viewers, was invited on a date by one of the villa’s new arrivals, Harley Brash.

Fellow newcomer India Reynolds chose to whisk Chris Taylor, who is also currently single, off on a date.

After returning from the day’s challenge, which saw the boys dress up as dogs and tackle a Crufts-style assault course, Ovie received a text.

It read: “Ovie and Chris. Two new girls are waiting to take you on dates tonight, please get ready. #backinthegame #slamdunk”

Speaking before the dates, Chris said in the beach hut: “I’m proper buzzing. I’ve been on my own so far and no one has fancied me.

“So, I’m vibrating around the place with excitement.”

Chris and Ovie left the villa and began their candle-lit dinners with India and Harley respectively.

After being asked by Ovie why she picked him, Harley replied: “I can see how much of a personality you’ve got. If you’re not funny, I don’t want to know you.”

She added she would love to watch him play basketball, saying: “I could be court side. Giving you a little cheer.”

Ovie replied: “My cheerleader? Yes!”

Meanwhile India told Chris she was looking for someone who was faithful.

She told him: “I want someone that doesn’t cheat. I just want to have a good time. Someone who I can party with but will tell me when it’s time to go home.”

The episode also saw Amber Gill asked on a date by another new arrival to the villa, professional rugby player Greg O’Shea, from Limerick.

Couple Jordan Hames and Anna Vakili were also voted into the Hideaway for an evening alone with Anna saying after in the beach hut: “It was everything in one.

“It was romantic. It was funny. It was sexy. I wouldn’t mind having every night in the Hideaway!”

Love Island, hosted by Caroline Flack, continues on ITV2.