India‘s remarkable journey in the Asia Cup 2023 reached its zenith at Colombo’s R Premadasa Stadium when they secured a historic eighth title by overpowering Sri Lanka in the final. This gripping showdown will be etched in cricketing memory as India’s bowlers put on a masterclass, rendering Sri Lanka powerless with a relentless display of precision and aggression. The defending champions, Sri Lanka, met their downfall in a mere 15.2 overs, setting the stage for India’s emphatic triumph.
Mohammad Siraj’s heroics
The star of the final was none other than Mohammad Siraj, the formidable pacer from Hyderabad. His spectacular spell of 6/21 obliterated the Sri Lankan batting order and earned him the well-deserved Player of the Match award, sealing India’s victory.
A nostalgic moment
Amidst the celebration of India’s triumph, cricket aficionados couldn’t help but reminisce about a significant historical moment. It harked back to 23 years ago in the 2000 Coca-Cola Champions Trophy final in Sharjah when India was bundled out for a mere 54 runs against Sri Lanka. This victory now in 2023 summit clash not only showcased India’s bowling supremacy but also served as a cathartic moment for fans and cricketers who had witnessed India’s humbling defeat in that infamous final.
Also READ: From 1984 to 2023 – List of Asia Cup Winning Captains, Player of the Match in Final and Player of the Series
Yuvraj Singh’s perspective
Among the enthusiasts, former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh stood out. His memories of that final were vivid, where India, chasing a target of 300, were shockingly bowled out for a mere 54 runs. Chaminda Vaas‘ exceptional five-wicket haul sealed India’s fate, and they succumbed to a massive 245-run defeat. Yuvraj’s, who contributed just three runs in that match, was part of the playing XI that faced this ignominy.
Yuvraj took to Twitter to celebrate and express his feelings about India’s resounding victory led by Rohit Sharma‘s team. The joy of this emphatic win was evident in his tweet, and he shared in the collective relief and elation following India’s dominant performance.
“The monkey is finally off our back! 23 years ago team India was all out for only 54 against SriLanka in Sharjah. Congratulations boys on a dominating performance in the AsiaCup! Congratulations boys on a dominating performance in the AsiaCup!,” Yuvraj wrote.
The monkey 🐒 is finally off our back!
23 years ago team India 🇮🇳 was all out for only 54 against #SriLanka in Sharjah.
Congratulations boys on a dominating performance in the #AsiaCup!
Looking forward to this form being carried thru to the #WorldCup 🏆
— Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) September 17, 2023
The final showdown
In the Asia Cup 2023 final, Sri Lanka, led by Dasun Shanaka, won the toss but could only muster a meager total of 50 runs in 15.2 overs. This extraordinary bowling performance was spearheaded by Siraj, who claimed six wickets. Supported by Hardik Pandya (3/3) and Jasprit Bumrah (1/23), they dismantled the Sri Lankan innings. It was the lowest score by any side in Asia cup ODIs history.
Swift chase by India
India wasted no time in chasing the target, achieving victory in just 6.1 overs. Openers Shubman Gill (27*) and Ishan Kishan (23*) displayed their skills, underscoring India’s dominance in both batting and bowling.
Also READ: Cricket world goes berserk as India demolish Sri Lanka to record biggest win in an ODI final – Asia Cup 2023, IND vs SL
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