The Asia Cup 2023 final between India and Sri Lanka at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo bore witness to a breathtaking spectacle, etching
Mohammed Siraj‘s name in cricketing history. In an over that defied expectations, Siraj orchestrated a remarkable dismantling of Sri Lanka’s top order, leaving cricket fans in awe.
India, compelled to bowl first, witnessed a sensational new-ball burst from Siraj. He unleashed a fiery spell, securing four wickets in just five deliveries. Siraj’s magic over commenced with the dismissal of Pathum Nissanka, who played a length delivery to the right of point, where Ravindra Jadeja executed a low catch.
The in-form Samarawickrama followed, falling victim to a leg-before-wicket decision, and departing without scoring. Charith Asalanka was next, chipping his first ball to Ishan Kishan at cover, further deepening Sri Lanka’s turmoil. Despite de Silva averting the hat-trick ball with a boundary through long-on, Siraj returned with a sharp delivery that induced a caught-behind wicket.
Siraj continued his masterclass, achieving a five-wicket haul as he castled Sri Lanka’s captain, Dasun Shanaka, for a four-ball duck in his third over. As he stepped into his sixth over of the opening spell, Siraj achieved another milestone by taking his maiden six-wicket haul, clean bowling Kusal Mendis with a straighter delivery.
[ VIDEO ] Mohammed Siraj Picks Up 4 Wickets In One Over In Asia Cup 2023 Final
In the process, the 29-year-old speedster etched his name alongside former Sri Lanka pacer Chaminda Vaas for the quickest ODI five-for, achieving the feat in just 16 deliveries. Vaas had accomplished this historic milestone against Bangladesh in 2003.
Furthermore, Siraj achieved his 50th ODI wicket during this memorable spell, marking the achievement in his 29th ODI appearance. Remarkably, he became the joint-fourth-quickest Indian bowler to reach this milestone. In terms of balls bowled, Siraj is now the second-fastest bowler to claim 50 ODI wickets, trailing only behind Ajantha Mendis.
Mohammed Siraj’s astonishing over in the Asia Cup 2023 final will be etched in the annals of cricketing history. His fiery spell, packed with wickets, showcased his undeniable talent and his potential to be a game-changer for India. Cricket enthusiasts around the world were treated to a momentous display of bowling excellence that will be celebrated for years to come.