There are some matches in history, which are etched in the fans’ memories forever. A few among them are for good reasons, while the others are not for good ones. When India bundled out Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup 2023 final for just 50 runs, one was transported back to the Coca-Cola Champions Trophy 2000 final, in Sharjah where something similar had happened. The only difference is, in that match, it was India who was bundled out for 54.
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Champions Trophy 2000
After winning the toss, Sri Lanka opted to bat and posted a mammoth 299/5 in their 50 overs. The wrecker-in-chief Sanath Jayasuriya smashed 189 from 161 balls, hitting 21 fours and four sixes. He was ably supported by gritty Russell Arnold who scored a brisk 52 from 62 balls. As for the Indian bowlers, Venkatesh Prasad leaked 73 runs in seven overs. Ajit Agarwal returned with bowling figures of 0/67 in that match. Only Sachin Tendulkar bowled decently and ended his 10 overs for 1/28.
Not that the target of 300 was unachievable in those days, but Jayasuriya had completely deflated the morale of Team India. Right from the start of the chase, only one batsman, Robin Singh could get into the double digits. The entire Indian innings just had two boundaries, and the highest partnership for India was 11. Chaminda Vaas claimed five wickets in that match, while Muthiah Muralidaran wrapped up things rather quickly with his three wickets.
Asia Cup 2023
As far as the Asia Cup 2023 final is concerned, fast bowler Mohammad Siraj bagged six wickets, and Hardik Pandya finished off the proceedings with three. Jasprit Bumrah too picked up a wicket. India chased down the target in a little over six overs to lift the Asia Cup trophy.
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