On 17 September 2023, India won the Asia Cup for the 8th time as they chased down just 51 runs in 6.1 overs with all 10 wickets in hand, The Lankans got bundled out for just 50 runs, thanks to Mohammed Siraj’s fiery spell. He picked up six wickets for 21 runs in seven overs. So, he was adjusted the Player of the Match also.
But, Siraj won the hearts of fans when he announced that he would dedicate this award and cash prize to Sri Lanka’s groundsmen for their immense effort throughout the tournament. During the post-match presentation ceremony, after witnessing such a gesture from the Team India pacer, fans lauded him on social media.
“The way I thought, I executed it and the plan was successful.” - Mohammed Siraj
Siraj said: “I want to give this cash prize to the groundsmen. They deserve it. If they were not around, this tournament would not have been successful." The groundsmen, especially in Colombo have been exceptional for the last six matches as rain threats loomed over maximum matches. Still, they managed to put in their full efforts and conduct the matches.
Even, before the start of the final, there was a drizzle but as soon as the rain stopped, in 10 minutes, they arranged everything and the game kicked off. The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) and Sri Lanka Cricket Board (SLC) also announced a well-deserved prize money of USD 50,000 for the dedicated curators and groundsmen at Colombo and Kandy.
Regarding his performance, Siraj said: "I have been bowling well for a while. The batters were getting beaten for the last two matches, today I found the edges. I just tried to hit the areas. The wicket was seaming for the last two matches, today there was swing so I tried to make the batters play as much as possible. Because it was swinging, I thought of putting the balls up to the batters. The way I thought, I executed it and the plan was successful. Definitely my best spell.”
Here is how fans have reacted:
Respect For Miyaan Bhaiyaa 👇🏻 respect button
— the DUGOUT ! (@teams_dream) September 17, 2023
What a great gesture from Siraj, Proud of him ❤️🔥
— Harman Singh (@HarmanS48671788) September 17, 2023
Siraj winning the match as well as the hearts ❤️👑
— Chatur (Not an Idiot) (@mpbsvs) September 17, 2023
Miya bhai 1 din me Kitni baar dil jeetoge ❤️❤️
— Felix Makwana (@felixmakwana) September 17, 2023
A man with golden heart.
— Teri Meri Baatein (@TeriMeriBaatein) September 17, 2023
Gem 💎
— Sohel. (@SohelVkf) September 17, 2023
Siraj 🔥🔥❤🇮🇳 boom boom 6 wicket 🔥🔥🔥✌❤
— GORDXROHIT (@gordxrohit) September 17, 2023
Dil jeet liya bhai ❤❤❤
RCB blood ♥️
— AK🚩 (@Rc18forever) September 17, 2023
Tarrieeff ke liye upyogya 🔥❤️
— DENGUE (@Den__gue) September 17, 2023