In a thrilling display of cricket prowess, the Indian cricket team delivered a masterful performance in the Asia Cup 2023 final, held in Colombo.
Led by the capable Rohit Sharma, the Indian side showcased their dominance. The final, witnessed on a fateful Sunday, witnessed a remarkable bowling display from the Indian squad as they skittled Sri Lanka for a meager 50 runs.
Notably, it was the relentless Mohammed Siraj who claimed 6 wickets for just 21 runs in a mere seven overs. Subsequently, India’s batsmen achieved the target with ease, sealing their eighth Asia Cup title.
This triumph serves as a significant morale booster ahead of the Cricket World Cup, particularly considering that the Indian team had not secured an ICC title since 2013.
Amidst the jubilant trophy celebration, several Indian players proudly raised the coveted trophy. An endearing tradition within Indian cricket is to allow the youngest or newest member of the team this honor, and it was 20-year-old Tilak Varma who had this privilege.
Following his lift, another individual stepped up to hoist the trophy, but he was neither a player nor a coach nor even a physiotherapist. His name is Raghu Raghavendra, and he holds the crucial role of ‘throw-down specialist.’
Raghu’s primary responsibility is to provide throw-down practice to Indian batsmen during net sessions, using a slinger. Interestingly, India is reported to employ two other specialists in this role.
These individuals, often overlooked, play an indispensable role in honing the team’s batting skills. Virat Kohli had previously acknowledged their vital contribution, emphasizing their role behind the team’s success.
Raghu Raghavendra himself hails from the National Cricket Academy and holds the distinction of being India’s inaugural throw-down specialist.
Over the years, he has delivered throw-downs to illustrious players like Sachin Tendulkar and MS Dhoni, further underscoring his importance in the Indian cricket ecosystem.
After restricting Sri Lanka to a paltry 50 runs in the final, Indian captain Rohit Sharma was effusive in his praise for the fast bowlers, emphasizing the variety they bring to the team’s arsenal.
Mohammed Siraj’s exceptional spell of 6 wickets for 21 runs laid the foundation for India’s resounding 10-wicket victory. Rohit expressed his gratification, highlighting the pride he takes in the team’s fast bowling capabilities.
He commended the diversity among the fast bowlers, each possessing unique skills and variations, including pace, swing, and bounce. This well-rounded bowling unit is undoubtedly a source of immense confidence for the Indian captain.
Rohit also shared a delightful anecdote about Siraj’s enthusiasm, noting how the fast bowler was so charged up after his relentless seven-over spell that the team trainer had to intervene to prevent him from overexerting himself.
It was a moment of collective joy for the team, as they marveled at Siraj’s exceptional bowling prowess, symbolizing the camaraderie and spirit within the Indian cricket squad.
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