The Indian women's cricket team successfully defended its Asian Games title on Tuesday, securing India's first gold medal of the ongoing edition.
The Harmanpreet Kaur-led team's victory was built on a dominant batting display that put Sri Lanka under pressure from the outset. Vice-captain Smriti Mandhana led the charge with a classy 79 off 45 balls, before Richa Ghosh produced a powerful finish with 48 off just 22 balls.
Shafali Verma also made a significant contribution at the top of the order, scoring 48 off 29 balls after providing Mandhana with strong support.
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The three batters helped India post 216 for three, the highest total in Asian Games cricket history, setting Sri Lanka a target of 217.
Sri Lanka struggled in the chase and were unable to mount a serious challenge against the defending champions as India completed a comprehensive victory to retain its continental crown.
Following the win, NDTV spoke to veteran Indian all-rounder Deepti Sharma, who reflected on the team's performance and the significance of defending the Asian Games title.
"Winning gold is a big thing. The hard work has paid off. We are used to winning trophies, but this time we have won a gold medal. This is our first gold of 2026, so it's great," Deepti told NDTV.
Reflecting on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "Don't buy gold" remark, Deepti laughingly said, "I think we should win gold before buying it. This is a great opportunity for Indian athletes. I send them my best wishes for the Asian Games."
Deepti also credited India's preparation and support staff for the team's strong performances.
"We have a lot of camps, and we get to know where we can improve. Our support staff is outstanding. When you think in that way, you become mentally strong. That's why I think the Indian team is strong," she said.
The all-rounder also highlighted how winning a gold medal at a multi-sport event feels different from triumphing in regular cricket tournaments.
"I mean, in normal cricket, we do have post-match presentation ceremonies. But in such multi-sport events, we have won gold. You get a different feeling here because it is a team effort," Deepti added.
India head coach Amol Muzumdar also described the Asian Games triumph as a special moment for the team.
"It's a surreal feeling. The ODI World Cup was very special, but the Asian Games gold is also a special moment," he told NDTV.
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Muzumdar said India's focus would remain on playing to its potential rather than comparing itself with other teams.
"I would not like to comment too much on the difference with other teams. Our aim is to play to our potential. Not every time will we win everything, but if we put our best foot forward, more often than not we will get better results," he said.
Muzumdar also stressed the importance of carrying the team's momentum into future competitions, pointing to India's strong bowling attack and experienced batting unit.
"We have been doing well in the five matches that I have been a part of. In ODIs, we are the world champions. In T20Is, we did not win the World Cup, but we are pushing ahead. The bowling looks really settled. The batting is experienced. This set has a great road ahead," he added.
"I want to wish the entire contingent a great Asian Games. Hopefully, India will win a lot of medals," he concluded.
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