Asia Cup 2023 Final: Indian Fans Thank Virat Kohli After Mohammed Siraj Runs Riot

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Rohit Sarkar

 

The Asia Cup 2023 Final witnessed an extraordinary display of fast bowling prowess as Mohammed Siraj ran riot against Sri Lanka, earning accolades from fans and an outpouring of gratitude towards Captain Virat Kohli. In a scintillating spell, Siraj achieved the fastest five-wicket haul in ODIs, sending shockwaves through the Sri Lankan batting lineup.

The drama began when Siraj, after a maiden over, struck with vengeance. In the fourth over, he took four wickets, leaving Sri Lanka staggered at 12/5. The over commenced with the dismissal of Pathum Nissanka (2), an exceptional catch by Ravindra Jadeja.

In a remarkable sequence, Siraj swiftly sent Sadeera Samarawickrama (0) and Charith Asalanka (0) packing off consecutive deliveries. Dhananjaya de Silva (4) became his fourth victim. Not stopping there, Siraj continued his rampage in the next over by cleaning up Dasun Shanaka (0), securing his five-wicket haul in style.

Siraj’s performance etched his name alongside legends as he equalled Chaminda Vaas’ record of achieving five wickets in just 16 balls, a feat accomplished against Bangladesh in the 2003 World Cup. He further etched his name in the history books by recording the best bowling figures in Asia Cup history. Additionally, Siraj claimed the title of being the highest wicket-taker for India in the first 10 overs of an ODI since 2002.

Sri Lanka, led by Shanaka, won the toss and elected to bat, setting the stage for a challenging battle against India in the Asia Cup final. Despite coming in as underdogs, Sri Lanka displayed their mettle by defeating Pakistan in their last Super Four encounter, earning their place in the final.

Throughout the tournament, rain had been a persistent adversary, and Sunday evening was no exception, with more rain forecasted. Both teams made crucial changes to their line-ups. Sri Lanka brought in all-rounder Dushan Hemantha for the injured Maheesh Theekshana. Meanwhile, Washington Sundar replaced the injured Axar Patel in the Indian squad.

Asia Cup 2023 Final: Indian Fans Thank Virat Kohli After Mohammed Siraj Runs Riot

Asia Cup 2023 Final: Indian Fans Thank Virat Kohli After Mohammed Siraj Runs Riot

Notably, Virat Kohli, who has consistently backed Mohammed Siraj during his underperforming days, has seen his faith rewarded. Over the past year, Siraj has emerged as a match-winner for India across all formats. Fans have expressed their gratitude towards Kohli for his unwavering support.

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Mohammed Siraj’s sensational five-wicket haul in the Asia Cup 2023 Final against Sri Lanka showcased his remarkable talent and tenacity. It was a moment of pride for Indian cricket and a testament to Captain Virat Kohli’s faith in nurturing young talent. As India chased their eighth Asia Cup title, Siraj’s performance will be remembered as a historic moment in the world of cricket.

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