India dominates Asia Cup final, crushes Sri Lanka to clinch 8th title

COLOMBO: India clinched the trophy with ease, defeating Sri Lanka convincingly in the Asia Cup final. After winning the toss and opting to bat, Sri Lanka struggled against the Indian bowlers and eventually collapsed. Sri Lanka was bowled out for a mere 50 runs in 15.2 overs. In response, India achieved the target for victory through their opening partnership securing their 8th Asia Cup title.

Indian pacer Mohammad Siraj played a pivotal role in shattering Sri Lanka's title aspirations. During Siraj's impressive six-wicket haul, numerous Sri Lankan batsmen failed to reach double figures. Jasprit Bumrah claimed Sri Lanka's first wicket by dismissing Kusal Perera in the opening over. After Kusal Perera's dismissal without scoring, Siraj entered the scene. In the fourth over, Siraj achieved his four-wicket feat by dismissing Nisanka (2), Samarawickrama (0), Charit Asalanka (0), and Dhananjaya D'Silva (4). Siraj concluded his wicket-taking spree by removing Lankan skipper Dasun Shanaka (0) and Kushal Mendis (17). Hardik Pandya also made a significant contribution by taking three wickets and Sri Lanka could only muster a total of 50 runs. Kushal Mendis was the top scorer for Sri Lanka with 17 runs.

In reply, India reached the target for victory in under 10 overs. Ishan Kishan and Shubman Gill formed a strong partnership, adding 51 runs in just 6.1 overs. Ishan Kishan scored 23 runs from 18 balls, including three boundaries, while Shubman Gill contributed 27 runs from 19 balls with six fours.