Siraj’s Magical Spell Breaks India’s Five-Year Trophy Wait: A Recap of the Asia Cup Final
India won a commanding 10-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup 2023 final to clinch their eighth title and break their five-year trophy drought.
Sri Lanka’s Lowest ODI Total as Siraj Takes Four Wickets in Four Balls
Sri Lanka decided to bat first after winning the toss, but the Indian bowlers quickly pushed them into a difficult position. Jasprit Bumrah dismissed Kusal Perera for a duck in the first over, and Siraj then took over.
The lanky pacer bowled a maiden in his first over, and then went berserk in his second. He picked up four wickets in four balls, dismissing Pathum Nissanka, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, and Dhananjaya de Silva. This was the first time that a bowler had taken four wickets in four balls in an ODI match.
Siraj’s magical spell left Sri Lanka reeling at 12/5, and they never recovered from there.
In reply, India chased down the target in just 6.1 overs without losing a wicket. Shubman Gill and Ishan Kishan both scored unbeaten half-centuries to guide India to a comfortable victory.
Conclusion:
Siraj’s magical spell was the turning point of the match. He completely destroyed the Sri Lankan batting lineup and ensured that India had a very easy run chase. India’s win in the Asia Cup final was a comprehensive one, and it will give them a lot of confidence ahead of the 2023 ODI World Cup.