Mohammed Siraj’s 6/21 decimates Sri Lanka to help India win Asia Cup 2023
In an unprecedented ODI victory, India defeated Sri Lanka by 10 wickets to win their eighth Asia Cup title, led by Mohammed Siraj’s extraordinary bowling performance with figures of 6 for 21. With 263 balls to spare, it marked India’s largest win in terms of remaining deliveries, a major highlight of the match held at Premadasa Stadium.
Mohammed Siraj’s Magical Spell Decimates Sri Lankan Batting
Mohammed Siraj delivered a spellbinding performance, reducing Sri Lanka to a paltry total of 50 runs. His exceptional bowling ensured that Sri Lanka could only last for 15.2 overs, setting a new low for them against India in ODIs. Siraj became the fourth bowler in ODI history to take four wickets in an over and matched former Lankan pacer Chaminda Vaas’s record for the fastest five-wicket haul in just 16 balls.
Effortless Chase Led by Shubman Gill and Ishan Kishan
India had a breezy chase, with Shubman Gill scoring 27 runs and Ishan Kishan contributing 23 runs. They achieved the low target in just 6.1 overs, marking an extraordinarily quick victory that concluded in 116 minutes.
Breaking Old Records and Creating New Benchmarks
This victory also served as a redemptive moment for India, erasing the painful memory of a defeat against Sri Lanka in the Coca Cola Champions Trophy at Sharjah in 2000. It is worth noting that this was India’s first multi-nation title since their win in the Asia Cup 2018.
The Unfolding of the Match and Sri Lanka’s Struggles
Sri Lanka had chosen to bat first after winning the toss, despite cloudy weather conditions. However, their decision backfired as Siraj, supported by Jasprit Bumrah, tore through their batting line-up. Hardik Pandya later contributed by cleaning up the tail with a three-wicket haul.
In summary, India’s comprehensive win over Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup was a spectacle dominated by Mohammed Siraj’s extraordinary bowling. His performance will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most impactful in ODI history.