Man of the Match and Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj exhibited not just excellent bowling abilities but also a generous personality in the 2023 Asia Cup final. Siraj gave the R Premadasa Stadium ground staff in Colombo the Man of the Match award money after his brilliant performance helped India win their ninth Asia Cup with a comprehensive 10-wicket victory against Sri Lanka.
Siraj was named Man of the Match and given $5,000 for his brave performance in the championship game. But instead of keeping the money for himself, he generously donated it to the tournament’s groundsmen, who were instrumental in making the Asia Cup a success.
In a touching show of appreciation, Siraj presented the cheque to the groundstaff whose hard work made the event possible. “The groundsmen will receive this cash prize. Without them, this tournament would not have been possible,” Siraj said after being named Player of the Match.
A large financial incentive of $50,000 was announced earlier in the day by the Asian Cricket Council and the Sri Lanka Cricket Board (SLC) to honour the hard work of the country’s groundsmen and pitch curators. Their contributions to making the Asia Cup 2023 an unforgettable cricketing spectacle were highlighted by this kind act.
Mohammed Siraj Gives Away $5,000 Of The Match Prize Money To The Sri Lankan Groundsmen
Jay Shah, secretary of the BCCI, conveyed the organization’s appreciation to the grounds staff praising their “unwavering commitment” and “relentless efforts” in making the event a success. Shah remarked that the venues, from pitch perfection to lush outfields, were only made possible because of the hard work and devotion of these people.
The Asia Cup was held mostly at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy and the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Unfortunately, rain delayed the start of several of the group-stage matches in Kandy. The first group stage match between India and Pakistan was postponed owing to weather, leading to a one-point split between the two teams.
Mohammed Siraj’s kind act is a powerful reminder of the unselfishness and camaraderie that characterise cricket not only on the field but also off it, where numerous people toil away to ensure that every match and tournament is a smashing success.
