In the wake of Mohammed Siraj’s remarkable performance that dismantled the Sri Lankan batting lineup in the Asia Cup 2023 Final on Sunday, September 17, India’s Captain Rohit Sharma couldn’t be prouder of the team’s dominant display. Rohit expressed his belief that the performance by the pacers, led by Mohammed Siraj, would be etched in the memories of cricket enthusiasts in the country for a long time to come.
India secured its 8th Asia Cup title by defeating Sri Lanka with an impressive 10-wicket victory in a one-sided final that lasted a mere 21.3 overs at Colombo’s R Premadasa Stadium. Despite winning the toss and electing to bat, Sri Lanka found themselves all out for a mere 50 runs in 15.2 overs, courtesy of a phenomenal display by the Indian pacers.
Mohammed Siraj was the standout performer, securing a 6-wicket haul, while Hardik Pandya contributed with 3 wickets, and Jasprit Bumrah chipped in with one. The pacers initiated India’s triumph by promptly dismissing Kusal Perera in the very first over. Siraj then terrorized the Sri Lankan batsmen with his impeccable swing, managing a spell for the ages, while Hardik completed the job by swiftly clearing the tail with figures of 3 for 3.
This victory marks a significant statement from India, considering the questions surrounding their form and the fitness of key players as they entered the Asia Cup. The emphatic win against Sri Lanka in the final has undoubtedly boosted India’s confidence ahead of the World Cup, which commences on October 5.
Rohit Sharma expressed his delight in witnessing the pace-bowling unit being rewarded for the relentless effort they’ve put in over the recent past. In an incredible feat, all 10 Sri Lankan wickets fell to spin, with Mohammed Siraj joining an elite group with the third-best wicket tally in an innings in ODI history.
Reflecting on the extraordinary performance, Rohit Sharma stated, “It was a great performance, especially to come and play like that in a final. Shows the mentality of the team. Our seamers are actually working really hard for many years, so it’s pleasing for the side to see them rewarded like that. Very clinical. A performance like that will be cherished for a very long time.”
Rohit further emphasized the rarity of such a performance and commended the skillset displayed by the players. He also highlighted the contributions of other team members at various stages of the tournament.
India’s upcoming schedule includes a 3-match ODI series against Australia from September 22 to 27, followed by their World Cup opener against Australia on October 8.