(Image Source: BCCI)
[Saba Sports News] India clinched their eighth Asia Cup title by defeating Sri Lanka with an eight-wicket victory in the Asia Cup 2023 final at R.Premadasa Stadium, Colombo. Sri Lanka, batting first, was dismissed for just 50 runs as Mohammed Siraj led India’s bowling attack with remarkable figures of 6/21 in seven overs.
Jasprit Bumrah (1/23 in 5 overs) and Hardik Pandya (3/3 in 2.2 overs) also contributed to the wickets. After India’s comprehensive win, a touching moment between Siraj and Bumrah hugging in the dressing room went viral on social media.
In the chase, India opened with Ishan Kishan and Shubman Gill, who attacked from the outset, securing the victory in just 6.1 overs with 263 balls remaining. Kishan remained unbeaten on 23* (18), and Gill scored 27* off 19.
Siraj was named Player of the Match for his sensational spell and generously donated his $5,000 prize to the stadium’s ground staff. These groundsmen had tirelessly worked throughout the tournament, covering and uncovering the field during rain interruptions, making the gesture even more meaningful.
Kuldeep Yadav received the Player of the Tournament award for his nine wickets in four matches. With this win, India continued their dominance in the Asia Cup, making them the most successful team in the tournament’s history, followed by Sri Lanka with six titles and Pakistan with two titles.