Asia Cup 2023: Mohammed Siraj dedicates Player of The Match award to ground staff, donates prize money

Star Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj won the Player of the Match award following his exceptional bowling efforts in the Asia Cup 2023 final against Sri Lanka. Courtesy of his 6/21 spell India outplayed the hosts by ten wickets to clinch their eighth title in the Continental championship.

The 29-year-old received a prize money of $5000 (INR 415451.75). In a heartwarming gesture, he dedicated the reward to groundsmen, stating the competition wouldn't have been possible without them.

Also Check: Mohammed Siraj Career Journey & Achievements

"Have been bowling well since a long time. Was missing the edges earlier but found them today. The wicket was seaming earlier, but there was swing today. [I] Thought that I will bowl fuller because of the swing. When there's good bonding between fast bowlers, it's helpful for the team. I was thinking it would be great if I could stop the boundary. My best spell. This cash prize [$5000 or INR 415,452 approx] goes to the groundsmen. This tournament wouldn't have been possible without them," Siraj said after winning the Player of the Match award.

ACC President Jay Shah presents prize money of INR 41.5 Lakh for ground staff and curators 

The 16th edition of the Asia Cup was disrupted by numerous rain interruptions. The ground staff were up to the task, from quickly removing the heavy coverings to deploying inventive tactics to dry the pitch. The curators also did an excellent job, since the pitches were suitable for both bowlers and batters.

On Sunday (September 17), Asian Cricket Council (ACC) president Jay Shah and Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) announced prize money of USD 50,000 (INR 41.5 Lakh, 1.6 Cr Sri Lankan rupee) for curators and groundsmen in Colombo and Kandy. Shah referred to the ground personnel as the 'Unsung Heroes of Cricket' and remarked that the tournament was the result of their unwavering commitment and hard work. 

Sri Lanka ground staff received a cheque of USD 50,000 for their outstanding work in this competition. During the award ceremony, the ACC president presented the reward to national curator Godfrey Dabrare.