In a tournament touted to be either India's or Pakistan's, it was the minnows Sri Lanka who were victorious in a surprising turn of events.
In a tournament touted to be either India's or Pakistan's, it was the minnows Sri Lanka who were victorious in a surprising turn of events.
It was a morale-boosting triumph, not only because the Lankans are a young bunch of players, but also because of the crisis in the country.
The country is in economic turmoil after the government went into debt. People are struggling with daily power cuts and shortages of fuel, food and medicines.
After their win over Pakistan in the Asia Cup final, their hero Bhanuka Rajapaksa dedicated their trophy to the people of the country.
The people gathered at the Katunayake airport at 4.45 am, and the parade celebrating Sri Lanka's win took off on the Katunayake- Colombo normal road at 6:30 am.
For the joyous occasion for the team, the players of the victorious squad carried the trophy on a double-decker bus for fans to see.
It was a historic victory for Sri Lanka, who were winning the Asia Cup after eight years, especially given the inexperience of the side.
While young bowlers like Pramod Madushan and Dilshan Madushanka proved their selections, regular Wanindu Hasaranga was a rock with both ball and bat.
Having won Asia Cup, Sri Lanka's next goal will be to qualify for the T20 World Cup in Australia. They face Nambia in the 1st Qualifier on October 16.