Siraj, who was adjudged man of the match in the final, posted his best ever ODI score of 6/21 and India clinched their eighth Asia Cup by crushing the hosts in the Sri Lankan capital by 10 wickets.

Honestly, today’s spell was just magical. I never thought I would play a match like this. Last time in Sri Lanka when we played in Trivandrum, I scored four wickets in four overs but I didn’t get the fifth wicket. In the two matches we played here, I played well, batted on the edge but didn’t find the edge, Siraj added about his spell.

Getting Sri Lanka to bat first, Jasprit Bamrach ensured India got their first breakthrough in the first over. However, as early as the fourth round, Siraj scored four wickets.

The first ball I struck out and when I let the ball go I got the swing. I thought on this pitch you don’t need to hit the deck, you just need to release the ball at one point. That was my plan, Siraj said.

Kuldeep shares new tweak

While Siraj became the man of the match for India, Kuldeep Yadav completed the Asia Cup as the player of the tournament. The left-arm spinner of China took nine wickets to his credit.

Talking about his preparation for the tournament, Kuldeep told Siraj: I too read wicket like you. Length is important for me. I also try to read the batter’s mind and what he is trying to anticipate. I use my wrong un and flipper when I use the crease. I have gained confidence in this rhythm.

Kuldeep also shared details about his wrong game. I’ve done a good job (on it) over the last year and a half. I’m in a very good rhythm. When I started, I didn’t have a good rhythm, but it’s going smoothly now. I’m getting the perfect speed.

When asked Siraj how he felt about not being able to play at full strength during the final when India restricted Shri. Lanka in the 16th over, Kuldeep concluded by saying, Thothe way you played in the finals. You deserve all the wickets.