COLOMBO: Hundreds of fans on Tuesday flooded the streets as Sri Lanka took out a victory parade on an open-top bus to celebrate their title triumph in the Asia Cup.

A brilliant half-century from Bhanuka Rajapaksa and fiery spells from spinner Wanindu Hasaranga and pacer Pramod Madushan helped Sri Lanka lift their sixth Asia Cup title, defeating Pakistan by 23 runs in the final in Dubai on Sunday.

Taking to their official Twitter handle, Sri Lanka Cricket shared photos of the overjoyed players travelling in a double-decker bus, with fans congratulating them.

The players also engaged with the crowd and expressed gratitude for their overwhelming support throughout the nation’s crisis.

“It feels great, no doubt. The entire team gave it their best and we made it!” Sri Lanka captain Dasun Shanaka, whose side also received a huge welcome upon their arrival at the island’s international airport in Katunayake, said.

The Asia Cup was set to take place in Sri Lanka but was shifted to the UAE due to the ongoing economic crisis in the country.

Published in Dawn, September 14th, 2022