(Image Source: PTI)
[Saba Sports News] In a dazzling showcase of seam and swing mastery, Indian fast bowler Mohammed Siraj etched his name into cricketing annals during the Asia Cup 2023 final.
His extraordinary performance, which left fans spellbound, featured a captivating spell that elegantly dismantled Sri Lanka’s batting lineup. With remarkable figures of 6 for 21, Siraj played a pivotal role in India’s commanding 10-wicket victory, securing their first Asia Cup title in five years.
India’s triumph not only showcased their dominance but also set a record with 263 balls to spare, marking their most significant victory in terms of remaining deliveries in ODIs.
Social media platforms reverberated with applause for the 29-year-old’s bowling prowess, even prompting the Delhi Police’s social media team to join the chorus of admiration. In a heartwarming tweet, they conveyed their appreciation, ‘No speeding tickets for Siraj today,’ posted the Delhi Police on their ‘X’ account.
Beyond his on-field heroics, the Hyderabad speedster’s sensational performance saw defending champions Sri Lanka bundled out for a meager 50 runs. Siraj, the maestro of seam and swing, effortlessly surpassed his own ODI best of 4/32. He swiftly dismissed Pathum Nissanka for just two runs and followed up with successive deliveries, accounting for Sadeera Samarawickrama and Charith Asalanka, narrowly missing a hat-trick. Siraj’s fifth wicket came in the form of Sri Lankan captain Dasun Shanaka, equalling an ODI record for the fastest five-wicket haul, achieved within his first 16 balls of the match.
In addition to his exceptional on-field display, the right-arm pacer exhibited remarkable generosity and sportsmanship by dedicating his $5,000 ‘Player of the Match’ cash prize to the groundsmen at Colombo’s R Premadasa Stadium.
This heartfelt gesture paid tribute to the groundsmen’s unwavering commitment in maintaining the pitch’s quality despite persistent rain interruptions throughout the tournament.