Bumrah celebrates Perera's dismissal [AP]
Riding on Jasprit Bumrah's new ball exploits, India had a dream start in the ongoing Asia Cup 2023 final against Sri Lanka. After opting to bat first under testing conditions, Sri Lanka had a massive setback, losing explosive opener Kusal Perera early in the innings.
After winning the toss, Lankan captain Dasun Shanaka opted to bat under overcast conditions. As soon as the game started following the rain interruption, Bumrah provided India with an ideal start, scalping the prized breakthrough of Perera in the third delivery.
Coming over the wicket, Bumrah bowled a perfect good length delivery, which moved slightly away from the batter after pitching.
Perera went for a half-hearted drive away from his body only to find the ball an outside edge off his bat. KL Rahul did the rest, diving to his left and holding on to a spectacular catch.
Thus, Perera, who was run out for a quick-fire 17 against Pakistan, got out for a two-ball duck in the all-important final. On the contrary, Bumrah proved his worth with the new ball for the umpteenth time with this crucial wicket.
After Perera departed, Kusal Mendis joined the middle to steady the ship alongside Pathum Nissanka. As of writing, Sri Lanka are eight for one, with Nissanka and Mendis batting on 2* and 5*, respectively.
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