At the R Premadasa stadium in this city, Mohammed Siraj, also known to his supporters as "Miyan Magic," won admiration from the crowd following the final game.

He presented the groundsmen with the cash award for "Player of the Final" in appreciation of their efforts that not only the final, but also some previous games continued after being halted by rain.

The Asia Cup in Sri Lanka had a number of games disrupted by rain, including Pakistan and Nepal in the group stage and Sri Lanka vs. India in the Asia Cup final.

The star bowler earlier won the hearts of Indian fans with his fierce bowling that folded up Sri Lanka's innings on 50 in about 15 overs. Siraj claimed six wickets in seven overs.

"This cash prize goes to the groundsmen. This tournament wouldn't have been possible without them," Mohammed Siraj said.

ACC president Jay Shah on Sunday took to 'X' to heap praise on ground staff for their hard work throughout the tournament.