PM Modi’s ‘Operation Sindoor’ congratulatory message leads nationwide praise after India’s Asia Cup triumph

Dubai: India clinched its ninth Asia Cup title, defeating Pakistan by five wickets in a tense final on Sunday. Chasing 147, India won with two balls to spare, led by an unbeaten 69 from Tilak Varma and a four-wicket haul by Kuldeep Yadav.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the team with a post: "Operation Sindoor on the games field. Outcome is the same – India wins! Congrats to our cricketers." The message trended nationwide, echoing sentiments of national pride.

Home Minister Amit Shah called it "a phenomenal victory" while BJP president JP Nadda lauded the "unstoppable spirit" of the team. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated, "Congrats to Team India on winning the Asia Cup. New India delivers." Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also praised the team, saying, "Victory will always belong to India, regardless of the field".

ICC Chairman Jay Shah saluted the team's consistency and character, while Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan also joined in by drawing parallels with the Indian Army's victory. Sports icons PV Sindhu and Ranveer Singh joined celebrities nationwide in congratulating the team.

India, however, refused to accept the winner's trophy from ACC chief and Pakistan Minister Mohsin Naqvi, leading to a delay in the post-match ceremony. The medal presentation later continued amidst celebrations by players and fans.