Dubai, September 14, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
India’s record-extending eighth Women’s Asia Cup triumph was followed by celebrations involving BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia and Vice President Rajeev Shukla, who joined the players and support staff on the field after their 72-run victory over Sri Lanka at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
Saikia and Shukla congratulated the Indian squad and support staff before presenting the fielding medal to Nandni Sharma, marking a special moment for the young player following her return from injury.
Nandni said the title was particularly meaningful after an injury during the Women’s Premier League (WPL) kept her out of action.
“It feels really good. I was in a tournament in India, and I got injured. I was in the WPL, the World Cup, so this is my first one. It feels really, really good, and then we won again, so it feels even better,” Nandni told broadcasters after the final.
Asked about India’s approach to Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu, who scored 36 before being dismissed by Deepti Sharma, Nandni credited the team’s preparation and support staff.
“I think the credit goes to my teammates and the staff. They kept everything very clear for us about what we had to do, so I just did that,” she said.
With the Asian Games also approaching, Nandni said the Asia Cup victory had boosted India’s confidence while providing lessons to address ahead of the next challenge.
“Confidence is very high, and it is there in our practice as well. Whatever little mistakes we made, we will work on them and then go there and win as well,” she said.
Deepti played a key role in the final, taking 3-19 and dismissing Athapaththu and Vishmi Gunaratne in the same over before returning to complete Sri Lanka’s innings.
Nandni highlighted the team’s faith in Deepti when crucial wickets are required.
“She is someone who, whenever a wicket is really needed, eventually gets that wicket. So we knew she would handle everything. We just had to give a good start with the ball,” she said.
The fielding medal added a personal highlight to Nandni’s return as India celebrated another landmark continental title.
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