Mohammed Siraj Hits 3 Sixes to Seal India’s Win
Mohammed Siraj turned the game around with a stunning 15-ball 32, smashing three consecutive sixes in the final over to seal India’s four-wicket win.
Mohammed Siraj Hits 3 Sixes to Seal India’s Win
Colombo: Mohammed Siraj produced a stunning batting cameo against Sri Lanka Cricket XI, smashing a hat-trick of sixes in the final over to guide India to a thrilling six-wicket victory in the three-day practice match.
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Chasing a target of 207 runs, India reached 214 for 4 in 45 overs. While India’s top-order batters had already laid the foundation for the chase, it was Siraj’s explosive finish that grabbed the spotlight and provided a dramatic ending to the contest.
Siraj walked out to bat after Manav Suthar was forced to retire hurt during the 43rd over of India’s second innings. Following instructions from head coach Gautam Gambhir, Siraj came into the middle and immediately took an aggressive approach.
Siraj’s Explosive Knock and Six-Hitting Hat-Trick
Siraj announced his arrival with a massive six off the fifth delivery of the 44th over. He then went after Sri Lanka Cricket XI bowler Keshara Nuwantha in the final over.
The Indian pacer smashed three consecutive sixes, completing a sensational six-hitting hat-trick. His third six brought India over the winning line and sealed a memorable victory.
Siraj was not done yet. After India had secured the win, he continued attacking and struck a boundary off the fifth ball of the same over.
The fast bowler finished unbeaten on 32 runs from just 15 balls, including four sixes and one four, producing one of the most entertaining moments of the practice match.
India’s Top Order Sets Up the Chase
India began the chase with regular Test captain Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal opening the innings. The pair put together a strong 105-run opening partnership, giving India a solid platform.
Gill was the first Indian wicket to fall in the 21st over. He scored 44 runs from 54 balls, hitting seven boundaries.
Jaiswal continued the attack from the other end and produced an impressive knock of 61 runs from 46 balls, smashing nine fours and two sixes.
However, India lost wickets at regular intervals after the opening partnership. Rishabh Pant scored 28, while Dhruv Jurel contributed 17 runs. Ravindra Jadeja added 22 runs, while Manav Suthar scored 2 before retiring hurt.
With the lower order under pressure, Siraj’s explosive cameo changed the momentum and ensured India crossed the finish line comfortably.
Sri Lanka Cricket XI Posts 207-Run Target
Earlier, Sri Lanka Cricket XI declared their first innings at 363 for 8. India responded with 357 for 6 declared.
In their second innings, Sri Lanka Cricket XI declared at 200 for 6, setting India a target of 207 runs.
Nishan Madushka scored 63, while Nipun Dhananjaya contributed 46 and Anjala Bandara added 35 to help Sri Lanka Cricket XI reach 200 for 6.
India then completed the chase in 45 overs, finishing on 214 for 4 and winning the three-day practice match by six wickets.
For Sri Lanka Cricket XI, Keshara Nuwantha claimed two wickets, while Vishwa Fernando and Ramesh Mendis picked up one wicket each.
Siraj’s explosive finish, particularly the three consecutive sixes in the final over, became the biggest talking point of the match and provided India with a dramatic victory.
