Sachin Tendulkar's unexpected announcement of Shreyas Iyer as the recipient of his second 'Best Fielder Award' created a stir after India's decisive 302-run victory against Sri Lanka in the World Cup 2023 match at the Wankhede Stadium.
Following the match, the team's fielding coach T Dilip revealed that the esteemed award would be handed out by a prominent cricket personality, later identified as Sachin Tendulkar. The former Indian captain then officially conferred the 'Best Fielder' title to Shreyas Iyer, acknowledging his exceptional performance against the Sri Lankan team.
Speaking via a video message following the resounding win, Tendulkar congratulated the side for the introduction of the 'Best Fielder' award and recalled a similar motivational message which the team had during their 2002 ODI World Cup campaign. "Rohit met me the other and spoke to me about the fielding medal," Sachin said in the video message.
"When we were playing in South Africa, we had a chart. It had 'I can, we can' mentioned and every player had to sign that chart before going out on the field. It was all about commitment… that I will give my 100 commitment to the country and the team."
"That is exactly what the current team is doing by giving a fielding medal. It is a reflection of your commitment to do something for your colleague, for your team and for the country. I've simply loved the brand of cricket that you have played so far. It's been a joy to watch," Tendulkar said in a video message which was played on a giant screen inside the Indian dressing room.
Meanwhile, Sri Lanka's aspirations of progressing to the knockout stages were severely dented as they suffered their fifth loss in seven matches, placing them in a precarious position.
The Sri Lankan team's pursuit got off to a disastrous start, with Jasprit Bumrah taking a wicket on the very first delivery, followed by Mohammed Siraj claiming the next three wickets, leaving them struggling at a vulnerable four for three runs.
Mohammed Shami's introduction into the attack resulted in an impressive five-wicket haul, further cementing India's dominant performance. Shami finished with notable figures of 5-18, while Siraj contributed with 3-16, leading to Sri Lanka being dismissed for a meager 55 runs, marking their lowest total in a 50-over World Cup match.
During the first innings, India's Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill exhibited commanding displays, each scoring half-centuries and constructing a formidable second-wicket partnership of 189 runs, propelling the hosts to reach a total of 357 for eight.
Despite the swift dismissals of Kohli and Gill by left-arm fast bowler Dilshan Madushanka, India's number four batsman, Shreyas Iyer, injected late momentum into the innings with an impressive 56-ball 82.
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WATCH: Sachin Tendulkar surprises Team India in dressing room, presents star batter with 'Best Fielder' Award, gives inspiring speech
