In a thrilling display of cricketing excellence, choreographer-director Prabhu Deva was seen cheering for the Indian cricket team during the Asia Cup 2023 final at the R Premadasa Stadium on Sunday. Joining him in the stands were key figures of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Secretary Jay Shah, and BCCI President Roger Binny. Prabhu Deva couldn’t contain his excitement and even waved towards the camera as he witnessed the captivating match unfold.
Siraj’s Dazzling Performance
The star of the show, Indian speedster Mohammed Siraj, delivered a spellbinding performance that will be etched in cricketing history. Affectionately known as ‘Miyan Magic,’ Siraj unleashed his mesmerizing bowling prowess, dismantling the Sri Lankan batting lineup with remarkable precision.
The game’s tone was set by another Indian pace sensation, Jasprit Bumrah, who made an immediate impact by claiming a wicket in the third ball of his very first over. Kusal Perera, the Sri Lankan opener, fell victim to Bumrah’s delivery, edging the ball straight into the safe hands of KL Rahul.Â
Siraj’s Powerplay Carnage
Mohammed Siraj continued the onslaught by delivering a maiden over, establishing a solid foundation for his remarkable spell. In the first ball of his second over, he dismissed Pathum Nissanka for just 2 runs. The following deliveries showcased Siraj’s mastery as he sent Samarawickrama back to the pavilion without scoring a single run, capturing him leg-before-wicket.
Sri Lanka’s match-winner against Pakistan, Charith Asalanka, stepped in to stabilize the innings. However, Siraj outwitted him, luring Asalanka into a drive shot. Asalanka took the bait, played the shot early, and sent the ball straight into the hands of Ishan Kishan at covers.Â
Siraj’s Record-Breaking Over
With a hat-trick opportunity beckoning, Siraj aimed for an inswinging delivery against newcomer Dhananjaya de Silva. A gentle push from de Silva landed the ball safely on the vacant side, ending Siraj’s quest for a hat-trick. Nevertheless, the over was a historic one, featuring four wicketsâan exceedingly rare occurrence in ODI cricket.
Siraj wasn’t done yet. He delivered a decisive blow by clean bowling Sri Lankan skipper Dasun Shanaka, who departed without adding any runs to the scoreboard. This marked the first instance in ODI history when India claimed six wickets within the initial 10 overs.
Pandya Joins the Assault
With Bumrah departing from the attack, Hardik Pandya entered the fray alongside the fiery Siraj. The Sri Lankan innings struggled to reach the 50-run mark, ultimately falling short at 15.2 overs. Sri Lanka’s decision to bat first left them pondering its wisdom.
The Indian openers, Shubman Gill and Ishan Kishan, wasted no time in chasing down the target, accomplishing it in just 6.1 overs. Their remarkable partnership sealed India’s triumph in the Asia Cup 2023 final.
