In a resounding victory, India clinched their record-extending 8th Asia Cup title by defeating Sri Lanka by 10 wickets in the final of the Asia Cup 2023 at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Sunday. Led by Captain Rohit Sharma, the Indian team showcased their dominance, largely thanks to the sensational bowling performance of Mohammed Siraj.
With a remarkable haul of 6 for 21 in 7 overs, Siraj spearheaded India’s efforts to bundle out Sri Lanka for a meager 50 runs. Skipper Dasun Shanaka, after winning the toss, had chosen to bat first. As the final of the continental event unfolded just weeks before the Cricket World Cup, India’s cricketing prowess shone brightly.
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Following their triumph, a viral video captured a lighthearted moment on the field where Ishan Kishan playfully imitated Virat Kohli’s distinctive walk. Kohli responded with humor, leaving their teammates in stitches.
Ishan Kishan doing a Virat walk – Virat Kohli with the counter 😂😂#AsiaCup23 pic.twitter.com/u57DWmmJ7L
— रोहित जुगलान Rohit Juglan (@rohitjuglan) September 17, 2023
In the match itself, Mohammed Siraj’s exceptional performance was the standout highlight. He claimed four wickets in a single over, leading to Sri Lanka’s dismal total. India’s opening duo of Ishan Kishan and Shubman Gill then chased down the target in just 6.1 overs, securing an impressive victory. Siraj’s fifth wicket came when he dismissed Sri Lankan captain Dasun Shanaka, equaling an ODI record for the fastest five-wicket haul from his first 16 balls, a feat previously achieved by former Sri Lankan speedster Chaminda Vaas in 2003.
Speaking about the team’s performance, Captain Rohit Sharma expressed his satisfaction, saying, “It was a great performance, especially to come and play like that in a final. Shows the mentality of the team.” He also praised the hard work of India’s seamers over the years and emphasized the significance of their rewarded efforts. Rohit believed that a performance like this would be cherished for a long time.
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Sri Lanka’s woefully low total in the 50-over contest left the crowd, which had turned up in large numbers, deeply disappointed, as they witnessed only 116 minutes of action. Coach Chris Silverwood acknowledged the team’s subpar performance, expressing disappointment and calling for reflection in the dressing room. He lauded Mohammed Siraj’s superb bowling, recognizing the challenge of facing a high-class Indian bowling attack.
