Asia Cup 2023 final: Mohammed Siraj gives man of the match award to Colombo ground staff

Mohammed Siraj won the Man of the Match award in the Asia Cup 2023 final against Sri Lanka.

In a thrilling final match, team India emerged victorious against Sri Lanka, securing their seventh ODI Asia Cup title. It was the heart-warming gesture of Mohammed Siraj that stole the spotlight. The fast bowler's exceptional performance earned him the well-deserved title of Man of the Match, but what he did next left a mark on the hearts of cricket fans.

Sri Lanka batting first, and their innings was nothing short of a disaster. Mohammed Siraj's bowling brilliance was on full display as he scalped an astonishing six wickets, and conceded just 21 runs in his seven-overs spell. Sri Lanka's top-order crumbled, and their innings ended at just 50 runs in just 15.2 overs. Siraj's relentless aggression and precision bowling had left Sri Lanka with a low scoring target, setting the stage for India's easy chase.

India's response was swift and efficient, as openers Ishan Kishan and Shubman Gill made light work of the modest target, achieving victory in just 6.1 overs. Kishan and Gill knock showcased their class and skill, bringing India to a resounding victory and their seventh Asia Cup title.

Mohammed Siraj kind gesture

While Mohammed Siraj's on-field performance was a sight to behold, it was his off-field act of generosity that truly touched hearts. As the Man of the Match, Siraj was awarded cash prize of USD 5000. However, he decided to share the prize money with those often unnoticed heroes of the game, the ground staff.

In the post-match presentation, Mohammed Siraj said, "This cash prize goes to the groundsmen. This tournament wouldn't have been possible without them."

Throughout the tournament, persistent rain threatened to disrupt the matches. It was the dedication and hard work of the ground staff that ensured the games went smoothly. Siraj recognised their tireless efforts and, in a touching gesture, gave them a sum of 42 lakhs (Approx) Indian rupees from his prize money.