2022 is a big year for the cricket fans across the world. For the first time in a long time, fans will witness Asia Cup, IPL and ICC T20 World Cup in the same year. The last time it happened was in 2016 when all three tournaments happened back to back in the first half of the year.
However, this year, the IPL happened in March, April and May, while Asia Cup took place in August and September. ICC T20 World Cup 2022 will happen in October and November. Fans might not have noticed but there were five coincidences between IPL 2022 champions Gujarat Titans and Asia Cup 2022 champions Sri Lanka’s triumphs. Here’s a list of those five coincidences.
1. No one gave them a chance to win
When IPL began, hardly anyone gave Gujarat Titans a chance to become the champions. Similarly, Sri Lanka did not start as the favorites to win Asia Cup 2022. However, both teams brought their ‘A’ game to the table and captured the trophies.
2. Led by fast-bowling all-rounders
Hardik Pandya was the captain of the Gujarat Titans in IPL 2022. Dasun Shanaka captained Sri Lanka in Asia Cup 2022. Both players are all-rounders who can bat well and also bowl pace.
3. One world-class leg-spinner in the team
The importance of leg-spinners has grown a lot in the T20I format in recent years. Gujarat Titans had a world-class leggie in Rashid Khan, while Wanindu Hasaranga was the main leg-spinner for Sri Lanka. Both leg-spinners performed their jobs to perfection.
4. Finished at the top of the points table in round before the final
Gujarat Titans topped the IPL 2022 points table and earned a place in the playoffs. Sri Lanka topped the Asia Cup 2022 Super Fours points table and made it to the final. Both teams performed brilliantly in the main round as well as the final.
5. Defeated same team in their last 2 matches
Sri Lanka beat Pakistan in their last match of Super Fours and Final to become champions. Gujarat Titans beat Rajasthan Royals in Qualifier 1 and Final to become champions.
