Colombo: In a showcase of bowling skills, India emerged as the champions in the Asia Cup 2023 Final against Sri Lanka with a dominating performance. The match witnessed a display by Mohammed Siraj, who completely dismantled the Sri Lankan batting lineup in the overs, taking an astounding five wickets within the first six overs of the game. Jasprit Bumrah also claimed a wicket in the first ball of the innings, setting up Siraj’s exceptional bowling display.
Siraj’s dominance peaked in the fourth over as he orchestrated dismissals for four Sri Lankan batsmen leaving their opponents struggling at 12/6 after 5.4 overs. Even Dasun Shanaka, the Sri Lankan captain, fell victim to Siraj’s bowling prowess completing his five-wicket haul within his second over of the match. With figures of 6/21, Siraj not only achieved a personal milestone but also set a new record for the best bowling performance by any bowler in an ODI against Sri Lanka.
The nightmare continued for the home team as Hardik Pandya joined in on this demolition party by taking three wickets and bringing an end to Sri Lanka’s innings with two dismissals in two balls during the 16th over. Sri Lanka managed to score 50 runs, which is one of their lowest totals, in One Day Internationals (ODIs).
Chasing down the meager target, India opened with Ishan Kishan and Shubman Gill, who wasted no time in putting runs on the board. The pair displayed exceptional composure and skill, amassing 32 runs in a mere three overs. Their partnership continued to flourish as they reached the target in the seventh over, securing India’s victory with an astounding 10 wickets and a remarkable 263 balls to spare.