‘What a Spell it Was From Siraj’: Hardik, Shardul Hails Premier Pacer For Brilliant Performance in Asia Cup Final – News18

India vice-captain Hardik Pandya heaped praise on premier pacer Mohammed Siraj for his sensational bowling performance against Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup Final on Sunday. Siraj unleashed fire with the ball and claimed a six-wicket haul to completely dismantle the Sri Lanka batting line-up. He was just too good for the hosts’ batters as they were bundled out for just 50.

He ran riot with the new ball and claimed four wickets in his second over which broke Sri Lanka’s back in the summit clash.

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Hardik was elated with India’s record-extending 8th Asia Cup title and revealed that they were also looking to bat first but losing the toss turned out to be a blessing in disguise.

“As a group, we spoke about finishing games and throwing punches in the pressure situation. It was a good toss to lose, we wanted to bat as well,” Hardik told the broadcasters after the Asia Cup triumph.

The flamboyant all-rounder hailed Siraj for his tremendous bowling as he took advantage of the swing he got from the surface to dismantle Sri Lanka.

“I think our new bowlers, especially Siraj bowled really well. He got it swinging and created a lot of chances. Nowadays in ODI cricket, the new ball has been swinging and we have been speaking about getting the most. The first few overs, the ball didn’t even hit the bat,” Hardik added.

Asia Cup Final Highlights India vs Sri Lanka

Shardul Thakur, who was not part of the playing XI in the final, also talked highly of the bowling especially Siraj who was outstanding with the ball.

“It (the match) got over within the blink of an eye. Couldn’t get better than this. Bumrah started well and what a spell it was from Siraj. It was a brilliant effort from his side. Hardik got those last three wickets. It was a clinical performance by the bowlers. Gill and Ishan got done with the chase,” Shardul said.

Meanwhile, Shardul also suggested that India have found the answers from Asia Cup which they were seeking for the World Cup

“I think it was more of a combination how we are going to play in the World Cup. KL (Rahul) scoring that ton against Pakistan, what a comeback for him. We feel that we are a settled side, everyone is ready to showcase their skills. Whenever I’ll play I’ll try to contribute for the team,” he added.