In a high-stakes Asia Cup 2023 final in Colombo, Indian cricket sensation Ravindra Jadeja showcased his fielding brilliance with a breathtaking diving catch at backward points. This remarkable display of athleticism added to Jadeja’s growing list of incredible catches, setting the tone for a dominant performance by India.
After winning the toss and opting to bat first, Sri Lanka found themselves in early trouble. The Indian pace spearhead, Jasprit Bumrah, struck in the very first over, dismissing the dangerous Kusal Perera for a mere two-ball duck. With their key opener back in the pavilion, Sri Lanka faced a challenging start.
Ravindra Jadeja’s Moment of Brilliance
Ravindra Jadeja’s fielding prowess took centre stage in the fourth over of the match. Facing a delivery from Mohammed Siraj, Sri Lankan opener Pathum Nissanka attempted a punch behind square. It was at this crucial juncture that Jadeja, positioned at backward point, exhibited his extraordinary skills. With a full-length dive to his right, he plucked the ball out of the air to complete a spectacular catch.
Jadeja’s catch marked the beginning of an astonishing sequence of events. Mohammed Siraj, inspired by Jadeja’s brilliance, unleashed a sensational spell of fast bowling. In the same over, he struck again, dismissing Nissanka and triggering a collapse that would go down in the annals of cricketing history.
Siraj triggers Batting Collapse
In a remarkable display of fast-bowling mastery, Siraj claimed a staggering four wickets in that over, becoming the first Indian bowler to achieve such a feat in a single over. His scalps included Nissanka, Angelo Perera, Dasun Shanaka, and Dinesh Chandimal. Sri Lanka’s top order crumbled under the relentless assault.
The Asia Cup final witnessed Sri Lanka’s worst possible start as they lost their first four wickets within the first 10 runs and four overs. The troubles continued for the host nation as they quickly lost two more wickets, reducing them to a dismal 12/6 by the sixth over.
Mohammed Siraj’s devastating spell also etched his name in cricket history as he became the joint-fastest bowler to secure a five-wicket haul, sharing this record with Chaminda Vaas. Siraj achieved this remarkable milestone in just 16 balls, a testament to his impeccable line and length. With Sri Lankan batters falling like nine pins, India seized control of the final match, effectively nullifying the advantage of batting first.
