“A proud moment for Indian cricket! Congratulations to the Women’s team on winning the Asia Cup. Their confidence, consistency and remarkable spirit were on full display throughout the tournament. May this triumph inspire millions of youngsters across the country to play more and shine,” he posted on social media.
How India beat Sri Lanka
Shafali Verma smashed nine fours and two sixes during her 39-ball 68-run knock, while vice-captain Smriti Mandhana struck a 39-ball 59 laced with five fours and three sixes as the two openers stitched a 129-run stand in just 12.5 overs to lay a solid foundation for India after captain Harmanpreet Kaur opted to bat first.
Sri Lanka crawled back during the middle overs when the runs dried up for India and a cluster of quick wickets fell. However, a late flourish from young Gunalan Kamalini, who scored 15 off 5 balls, helped India finish with 183 for 5 — the second-highest first-innings score in a Women’s T20I tournament final (after 184/4 – AUS-W vs IND-W, Melbourne, T20 WC 2020).
For Sri Lanka, Mithali Ayodhya (1/33), Chamari Athapaththu (1/34) and Chamudi Praboda (1/40) were among wickets.
In reply, Sri Lanka could manage 111 all out in 20 overs with Chamari Athapaththu (36) and Nilakshika Silva (22) being the top-scorers.
Shree Charani was the pick of the bowlers with her 4/20, while Deepti Sharma snared two wickets.
