India won the inaugural edition of the ICC U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup by defeating England in the final in Potchefstroom on Sunday (January 29).

Upon returning to the country, the Shafali Verma-led side was on Wednesday (February 1) felicitated by the BCCI ahead of the third India-New Zealand T20I at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Amid rousing cheers from the fans, cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar honoured the Girls in Blue. BCCI secretary Jay Shah and president Roger Binny were also present at the felicitation ceremony.

"I would like to congratulate you on this magnificent achievement. The entire nation will celebrate (the triumph) for years to come.

"For me, my cricketing dreams started in 1983 but by winning this World Cup, you have given birth to many dreams. It was a magnificent performance," Tendulkar said during the felicitation ceremony.

“By winning this World Cup, you have given a dream to young girls in India to represent the country.

"The beginning of the WPL (Women's Premier League) is going to be the biggest thing. I believe in equality for men and women, and not just in sports. There should be equal opportunities," he added.

Tendulkar also lauded the BCCI for putting efforts in the development of women’s cricket in the country.

"What BCCI has been able to do and the officials' contribution in helping women's cricket prosper, I think it's a sign that we will really do well (in future)."

During the felicitation ceremony, the dignitaries handed over a cheque of INR 5 crore to the triumphant India U-19 women’s team as announced by Jay Shah earlier.