The Indian cricket team thumped Sri Lanka by 10-wickets in the Asia Cup 2023 final on Sunday to lift a record eight Asian title in Colombo. (More Cricket News)
After bundling out Sri Lanka for 50 runs - thanks to Mohammed Siraj's 6/21 that included a four-wicket over - India chased down the target in 6.1 overs.
Earlier, Dasun Shanaka opted to bat first after winning the toss in the final. However, the hosts' batting fell apart thanks to some brilliant seam bowling by Siraj as the Lankans fell apart one by one.
Following the win in the Asia Cup 2023, India is all set to take on the Aussies in a 3-match ODI series starting on September 22. With the ODI World Cup 2023 starting on October 5, the series serves as a key preparation ahead of the marquee event.
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One major blow for Team India is the unavailability of Axar Patel, who picked up an injury during their defeat against Bangladesh.
However, former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram said that the upcoming series is 'unnecessary' as it might add injuries and fatigue ahead of the World Cup. Team India have been on the road since August with the West Indies tour and followed it up with the Asia Cup 2023. With very little time to rest, the Australia series could provide little rest to key Indian players given the ODI World Cup is such a huge tournament.
“There are different venues and traveling in India… it takes a day (between every match). You need to preserve energy before the World Cup. I don't know why they are playing three ODIs. It is probably done a long time ago, but it was a bit unnecessary. You don't want to be tired before a mega-tournament where you are favourites at home. If you want some more players in the squad, you can play those in the three ODIs against Australia,” Akram was quoted as speaking on broadcaster Star Sports following India's win in the Asia Cup final.
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Before the marquee event, India will take part in two warm-up matches - England (September 30) and Netherlands (October 3).
