In a heartwarming display at the 2024 Women’s Asia Cup, Nepal’s captain Indu Barma presented a special gift upon India’s batting sensation Smriti Mandhana following their encounter in Dambulla, Sri Lanka. Post India’s dominant 82-run win in that game, Barma presented Mandhana with a Buddha statue as a token of appreciation.
The gesture took place during the post-match presentation ceremony on Tuesday, July 23. Despite the intensity on the field, both India and Nepal players engaged in friendly exchanges off the pitch, reinforcing the positive ethos of the sport.
India’s dominant performance throughout the group stage of the tournament was highlighted by their convincing win over Nepal, which secured their place in the semi-final. Led by stand-in captain Smriti Mandhana, India showcased their ability with both bat and ball, setting a competitive target of 178 runs and restricting Nepal to 96 for 9 in their allotted 20 overs.
A ‘Token of Love’ for team India by Nepal after the Asia Cup match.
Beautiful gesture ❤️ #CricketTwitter #WomensAsiaCup2024 📸 ACC pic.twitter.com/pvtoenmGlq
— Female Cricket (@imfemalecricket) July 23, 2024
Star performer Shafali Verma shone brightly with her explosive innings of 81 runs off just 48 balls, supported by a solid 122-run opening partnership with Dayalan Hemalatha (47). India’s spinners, led by Deepti Sharma’s three-wicket haul, further reinforced their dominance in the match.
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Off the field, Mandhana’s gracious acceptance of the Buddha statue and her willingness to pose for photographs with the Nepal team and young players demonstrated the spirit of unity and goodwill raised by cricket.
With India and Pakistan securing their spots in the semi-final from Group A, anticipation grows as the tournament progresses towards its climax. As the teams prepare for the knockouts, the Women’s Asia Cup 2024 continues to showcase not only competitive cricket but also the values of fellowship and respect that define the spirit of the game.
