Kolkata, 14 September (H.S.). West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has congratulated the Indian women's cricket team for winning the Asia Cup 2026, describing the triumph as a moment of immense pride for the entire nation.

In a post on social media platform ‘X’, Adhikari lauded the team's outstanding performance, confidence, consistency and fighting spirit on the field. He said the historic achievement would inspire millions of youngsters across the country to pursue sports with passion and make their mark on the global stage.

India defeated Sri Lanka by 72 runs in the final played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday to clinch the Women's Asia Cup title for the eighth time. Batting first, India posted 183 for five in 20 overs, with Shafali Verma scoring 68 off 39 balls and Smriti Mandhana contributing 59 off 39 balls. The opening pair put India in a commanding position with a 129-run partnership.

Chasing 184, Sri Lanka struggled against the Indian bowling attack and were bowled out for 111. Shree Charani was the pick of the Indian bowlers with four wickets, while Deepti Sharma claimed three wickets. Under the captaincy of Harmanpreet Kaur, India completed a comprehensive 72-run victory to reclaim the continental title.

India remained impressive throughout the tournament and produced consistent performances in the league stage before defeating Bangladesh by 40 runs in the semi-final to book their place in the title clash. The team's all-round performance continued in the final, with both the batting and bowling units contributing to the emphatic victory.

Congratulating the players, Chief Minister Adhikari said the team's achievement was a matter of great pride for the country. He expressed hope that the historic triumph would encourage young sporting talent across India to take up sports seriously and strive for excellence at the international level.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh