Asia Cup 2023: Washington Sundar travels over 1,200 km to attain Asian supremacy

Team India put forth a sensational performance in the final of the Asia Cup 2023 against Sri Lanka. The side showcased one of the best-ever displays with the ball and chased the target down with ease.

Ahead of the game, it was announced that star all-rounder Axar Patel would be missing the summit clash of the tournament due to the several niggles that he picked up during India’s loss to Bangladesh. As his replacement, the BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) came forward to announce that all-rounder Washington Sundar would replace him in the squad for the final.

However, as Sundar was informed about the call-up, the all-rounder was reportedly in Bengaluru. He received the call at 1 a.m. However, his passport was in Chennai, so the 23-year-old went to Chennai from Bangalore to retrieve the passport and made his way to Colombo to play in the Asia Cup final.

The all-rounder, however, was unable to contribute in the clash against Sri Lanka. Despite being selected in the lineup, Sundar did not bowl a single over or bat. With the brilliant performance by the Indian team, the side defeated Sri Lanka by ten wickets and clinched the Asia Cup title.

Mohammed Siraj’s masterclass propelled India to the Asia Cup title

Speaking of India’s performance in the final, the side came in to bowl after losing the toss. However, that turned out to be a blessing in disguise, as the Indian bowlers put forth a brilliant showing. Jasprit Bumrah took one wicket, Hardik Pandya struck thrice, and Mohammed Siraj took a whopping six wickets to dismantle Sri Lanka to a meagre total of 50 runs. 

Aiming to chase the target down, Indian openers Ishan Kishan and Shubman Gill finished the job for India. Scoring 23* and 27* runs, respectively. Kishan and Gill helped India win the game by ten wickets and clinch the Asia Cup 2023 title.