New Delhi, Oct 2026 : India women’s cricket team captain Harmanpreet Kaur congratulated the Indian women’s hockey team on winning gold at the Asian Games 2026 and securing direct qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, calling the achievement a proud moment for Indian sports.
India ended a 44-year wait for the Asian Games women’s hockey title after defeating defending champions China 1-0 in Friday’s final. Forward Lalremsiami scored the decisive goal in the 10th minute, while captain Savita Punia made a crucial penalty-stroke save to help India preserve its lead and secure the gold medal.
“Proud moment for Indian sports! Heartiest congratulations to our Indian Women’s Hockey Team on winning Gold at the Asian Games and qualifying for the LA Olympics! Mazaaaa aa gaya kudiyo,” Harmanpreet wrote in a post on Instagram.
“Your hard work, resilience, and determination continue to inspire millions. Wishing you all the very best for the journey ahead. Keep making India proud! Chak De India!” she added.
Harmanpreet’s message came after the Indian women’s cricket team also secured gold at the ongoing Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, adding to India’s successful campaign in women’s team sports.
The Indian cricket team defeated Sri Lanka by 147 runs in the final to claim the gold medal. Smriti Mandhana scored 79 runs as India posted 216 for three before restricting Sri Lanka to 69 for eight.
For the hockey team, the victory marked its second Asian Games gold and its first since 1982, when the women’s hockey competition made its continental debut in New Delhi.
India entered the final after topping Pool A with four victories and defeating Japan 7-2 in the semi-finals. The team carried that momentum into the title clash, producing a disciplined performance against a determined Chinese side.
Lalremsiami’s early strike proved decisive, but India’s defensive organisation and Savita’s timely intervention were equally important in securing the result. The team held firm under sustained Chinese pressure to protect its narrow advantage until the final whistle.
Beyond ending a long wait for the continental title, the victory secured India’s direct entry into the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028. The achievement provides a significant boost to Indian women’s hockey as the team begins preparations for the next Olympic cycle.
