India is one of the most prominent teams in International Cricket, at present. After winning 2011 CWC, India has failed to cross Semi-Final level in next two World Cups in Australia and England, respectively. Now, as 2023 world cup is happening at home, many expect and anticipate India to win big and repeat 2011. They had to test and showcase their skills to world at Asia Cup, 2023. The final clash with Sri Lanka as been a strong statement from India.
Mohammad Siraj has scripted one of the biggest wins for India. Sri Lanka won the toss and elected on a pitch with moisture. Ball swung and seamed well enough for Indian pacers to bring their skills into play very early on. Jasprit Bumrah got first wicket by dismissing Kusal Perera in first over. Siraj, later, took 4 wickets in one over, in the 4th. Sri Lanka have been bogged down to 12/5 and then 12/6 in 6th over. Siraj took a 5-for in just 10 balls. Hardik Pandya sent the last three and Sri Lanka got all-out for 50 in 15.2 overs. Mohammed Siraj(6/21), Hardik Pandya(3/3) and Jasprit Bumrah(1/23) took wickets for India.
In a relatively easy chase, India sent Shubman Gill and Ishan Kishan as openers. Both have ended the match in 6.1 overs. India won the match with 263 balls left. This is the biggest ODI margin win for India. Mohammad Siraj has won the Player of the match. Kuldeep Yadav has won the Player of the series with his 9 wickets.
Siraj proved his big heart by dedicating his prize money and award to ground staff who had to work hard due to continuous rains. India has shown the world that they have pacers who are in form and spinners, who suit conditions. If bowling can continue their form in CWC 2023 and batters perform, India can win again on home soil. Let’s hope that is the case!
Ashwin comes back into Team India for Australia series
