In a cricketing spectacle that left no room for doubt, India clinched their eighth Asia Cup title in Colombo with a crushing victory over Sri Lanka. The Men in Blue took just 6.1 overs to chase down a meagre target of 51, thanks to a blistering opening partnership by Shubman Gill and Ishan Kishan.
Siraj’s Sensational Spell Decimates Sri Lanka
The foundation for India’s triumph was laid earlier in the day when fast bowler Mohammed Siraj delivered an exceptional performance. Siraj tore through Sri Lanka’s batting order, sending them packing in just 15.2 overs. His fiery spell left Sri Lanka struggling to cope with his relentless pace and precision.
Historic Win by Balls
India’s victory wasn’t just emphatic; it also etched a new record in the annals of ODI cricket. They secured the win with a staggering 263 balls to spare, making it their biggest win in terms of balls. Their previous record dated back to 2001 when they defeated Kenya with 231 balls remaining.
Also READ: Asia Cup 2023 Final – Memes light up the internet after India’s record victory over Sri Lanka
India’s Asia Cup Dominance
The Asia Cup, which made its debut in 1984, has witnessed several format changes in recent years, alternating between ODI and T20I formats. India now stands as the most successful side in the tournament’s history, having secured eight titles in total (1984, 1988, 1990/91, 1995, 2010, 2016, 2018, and 2023).
Sri Lanka, their worthy adversaries, have claimed six Asia Cup titles (1986, 1997, 2004, 2008, 2014, and 2022). While India’s dominance in the tournament continues, Sri Lanka remains a formidable force in the Asian cricketing landscape.
ODI Asia Cup winners list and final results
- 1984: India – India topped the table in round robin format (Pakistan, India and Sri Lanka)
- 1986: Sri Lanka – Sri Lanka topped the table in round robin format (Sri Lanka, Pakistan and Bangladesh)
- 1989: India – India defeated Sri Lanka by 6 wickets in Dhaka
- 1991: India – India defeated Sri Lanka by 7 wickets in Kolkata
- 1995: India – India defeated Sri Lanka by 8 wickets in Sharjah
- 1997: Sri Lanka – Sri Lanka defeated India by 8 wickets in Colombo
- 2000: Pakistan – Pakistan defeated Sri Lanka by 39 runs in Dhaka
- 2004: Sri Lanka – Sri Lanka defeated India by 25 runs in Colombo
- 2008: Sri Lanka – Sri Lanka defeated India by 100 runs in Karachi
- 2010: India – India defeated Sri Lanka by 81 runs in Dambulla
- 2012: Pakistan – Pakistan defeated Bangladesh by 2 runs in Mirpur
- 2014: Sri Lanka – Sri Lanka defeated Pakistan by 5 wickets in Mirpur
- 2018: India – India defeated Bangladesh by 3 wickets in Dubai
- 2023: India – India defeated Sri Lanka by 10 wickets in Colombo
