Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the Indian cricket team for clinching their record ninth Asia Cup title, likening their victory over arch-rivals Pakistan to “Operation Sindoor,” a military action taken by India.
Following India’s thrilling five-wicket win in the final in Dubai on Sunday, the Prime Minister took to X (formerly Twitter) and posted: “Operation Sindoor on the games field. Outcome is the same – India wins! Congrats to our cricketers.”
The comparison refers to “Operation Sindoor,” the military campaign India launched following the Pahalgam terror attack, which involved targeting terrorists in Pakistan and a subsequent conflict with the Pakistani military.
Tilak Varma’s Final Over Heroics
The victory was sealed in a dramatic final over by left-handed batsman Tilak Varma. With 10 runs needed off the last over, Varma, showcasing a mix of aggressive strokeplay and composure, deposited the controversial pacer Haris Rauf into the mid-wicket stands for a crucial six. Rinku Singh, getting his first chance to bat in the tournament, then struck the winning boundary, sending Indian fans into a frenzy.
President Congratulates Team India
President Droupadi Murmu also extended her congratulations to the victorious squad, wishing them continued success.
“My heartiest congratulations to Team India for winning the Asia Cup cricket tournament. The team did not lose any match in the tournament, marking its dominance in the game. I wish Team India sustained glory in the future,” the President said in a post on X, acknowledging the team’s unbeaten run throughout the tournament.