“This cash prize (US$5000) goes to the groundsmen. They fully deserve it. This tournament would not have been possible without them,” Siraj said after bowling a brilliant spell – 6 wickets for 21 runs – that took India to the title clash. Turned into an exciting contest. No contest, India won in 21.3 overs of cricket.
Earlier in the day, the Asian Cricket Council had also announced a reward of US$50,000 for the team groundsperson.
Pictures of groundsmen reacting to the arrival of clouds over the ground with cover were regular during broadcasts, and the promptness and expertise with which they protected the pitch and then the outfield impressed everyone.
Despite rain all around in Sri Lanka, only one match ended without a result, the group-stage contest between Pakistan and India. The Super Four games between the same opponents were moved to a reserve day (this was the only Super Four game to have one), while the India vs Nepal and Pakistan vs Sri Lanka games were shortened.
The final was also slightly affected by rain. It came down immediately after the toss and play started with a delay of ten minutes.