NI Bureau
In the 2023 Asia Cup match between India and Sri Lanka, Captain Rohit Sharma expressed satisfaction with the intense contest, describing it as a valuable experience that tested various aspects of their game prior to World Cup.
India chose to bat and managed a modest score of 213. However, their bowlers delivered an exceptional collective effort, securing a 41-run victory and securing a spot in the final of the tournament.
During the middle overs, spinners Dunith Wellalage (5/40) and Charith Asalanka (4/18) caused significant trouble for India, dismissing them in 49.1 overs. Rohit Sharma top-scored with 53 runs.
Rohit Sharma commented on the game during the post-match presentation, stating, “It was a good game for us, especially to play under pressure. It challenged various aspects of our gameplay. We definitely want to experience such pitches to gauge our capabilities.”
Rohit also praised the bowling performances of Hardik Pandya (1/14) and Kuldeep Yadav (4/43). He mentioned, “Hardik has put in significant effort to improve his bowling over the past few years, and it’s pleasing to witness his performance today. Defending a target like this was not easy, especially as the pitch improved towards the end. Kuldeep has also been performing well over the past year, and his hard work on rhythm is paying off. He offers us many options, which is a positive sign for the future.”
Sri Lanka, on the other hand, lost wickets at regular intervals, with Kuldeep Yadav taking four wickets for 43 runs and Jasprit Bumrah picking up early wickets to secure India’s victory. Sri Lanka was bowled out for 172 runs in 41.3 overs. Dunith Wellalage was their top scorer with an unbeaten 42 runs, following an excellent display with the ball.
Prateeksha Thakur
