New Delhi: Team India captain has urged her side to keep things simple and back their strengths as they look to face Sri Lanka in the at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday, September 13. The Women in Blue will also look to avenge their defeat to Sri Lanka in the previous edition.
India and Sri Lanka have been the two standout teams in the tournament and have reached the final undefeated.
“Whenever you are playing a match which is so important to win the tournament, that day it is all about just playing on your strength and backing your strength,” Harmanpreet said at the pre-final press conference.
“Rather than trying too many things and thinking of doing something extraordinary, it is all about sticking to your strength, backing yourself and trusting your gut feeling,” she added.
Harmanpreet said that Sri Lanka came up with solid plans and performance when they faced them last time. The Women in Blue posted a competitive total of 165 runs, but Sri Lanka chased it down with eight wickets remaining to secure the title in 2024.
“There is no doubt about any team being stronger or any team being lesser than anyone. It is all about playing good cricket on an important day. Everyone in the team is very important and their contribution means a lot to us. It is good to see that whoever is getting the opportunity, they are coming up with some really solid performances,” she said.
The captain further added that their batting unit came under pressure in different situations, but still managed to put runs on the board. She also acknowledged that batting on the Dubai pitch has not been easy.
“This pitch is a little tough to bat on, but at the same time we just need to back ourselves, back our strength. We know we have such a good batting lineup,” she added.
Harmanpreet praises Sri Lanka’s bowling attack
Harmanpreet also lauded Sri Lanka’s bowling attack, saying that their ability to execute plans on the Dubai pitch has made them particularly effective.
“You have to really spend some time and then you can go for your shot. Whoever is settled, that person needs to take the responsibility and play till the end,” she said.
The Asia Cup 2026 final will begin at 8 PM (IST). The match will be streamed live on Sony Liv and telecast live on Sony Sports.