Asia Cup Final | India Register Biggest ODI Win With Thumping Victory Over Sri Lanka
Siraj's six-fer rattled SL for 50 [AP]
In a momentous achievement, India registered a resounding 10-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup 2023 final, claiming their 8th championship in the tournament's history. This win also establishes India as the only team to have ever won the Asia Cup final with a 10-wicket margin.
India's bowling unit wreaked havoc on the Sri Lankan batting lineup, dismissing them for a mere 50 runs after being asked to bowl first. Pacer Mohammed Siraj emerged as the standout performer, claiming a remarkable six-wicket haul, making him the match's hero.
In just his second over, Siraj dealt a severe blow to Sri Lanka by taking out four key wickets, including Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, and Charith Asalanka. He later returned to dismiss Dhananjaya de Silva and Lanka captain Dasun Shanaka.
Besides him, Hardik Pandya secured three wickets, and Jasprit Bumrah added one to his tally. In response, Shubman Gill and Ishan Kishan formed the opening partnership for India, chasing down the target in a mere 6.2 overs. Gill contributed 23 runs from 18 balls, while Kishan added 27 runs.
It is also India's biggest win in One-Day Internationals in terms of balls remaining.
India’s Biggest Win in ODIs (in terms of Balls)
• Vs Sri Lanka, 2023 (263 remaining)
• Vs Kenya, 2001 (231 remaining)
• Vs West Indies, 2018 (211 remaining)
• Vs England, 2022 (188 remaining)
With this victory, India maintains their position as the top Asian team with the highest number of Asia Cup titles. Having secured six Asia Cup titles, Sri Lanka holds the second spot in the tournament's historical success. India's upcoming challenges include a white-ball series against Australia at home, followed by the ICC World Cup 2023.