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In a high-stakes match at the World Cup final at Lord's, the Indian women's cricket team experienced a significant tumble in their chase against England, from 191/3 to 218/8. However, despite the challenging situation, Shubhlakshmi Sharma, a fellow cricketer from Jharkhand, remained hopeful. Broadcasting from a studio in Delhi, she reiterated that victory was still within reach as long as Deepti Sharma was at the crease. Unfortunately, despite Deepti's valiant effort (14 runs off 12 balls), it wasn't enough, and England emerged victorious by nine runs.
Shubhlakshmi, who has previously shared the dressing room with Deepti, expressed her wish that Deepti had opened the innings, citing her calm demeanour as a crucial requirement at the top of the order. This sentiment highlights Deepti Sharma's significant strides in international cricket, with even her senior contemporaries now expecting great things from the 19-year-old.
The 19-year-old left-hand batswoman had a remarkable run in the tournament, accumulating 216 runs from nine matches, including two half-centuries. Additionally, with 12 wickets to her name, Deepti Sharma was not only the most successful Indian bowler but also one of the top three bowlers of the World Cup.
Former India player and broadcast commentator Sanjay Manjrekar praised Deepti's talent on Twitter, highlighting her as the best fielder in the team and acknowledging her capability as both a pure bowler and batter. Shubhlakshmi, who has represented India in 29 international games across formats, also noted Deepti's incredible growth from a promising Under-19 player to the backbone of the current team.
Deepti Sharma age was just 17 when she made her One Day Internationals (ODIs) debut against South Africa in November 2014. This makes her the youngest Indian to debut in ODIs. Despite her youth, Deepti Sharma's stats were already impressive before this World Cup, making her a familiar name to those who follow women's cricket.
A few months before the World Cup, Deepti Sharma scored a remarkable 188 against Ireland in South Africa during a quadrangular ODI tournament. This inning was the second-highest individual score in women's ODIs, surpassed only by Belinda Clark 229 in 1997. Moreover, Deepti and Poonam Raut set a world record partnership of 320 runs during that match.
Deepti Sharma, a great fan of Australian captain Meg Lanning and Indian cricketer Suresh Raina, expressed her desire to interact with male cricketers to discuss her game. Despite her admiration for these cricketers, Deepti Sharma also mentioned her aspiration to bowl like Ravichandran Ashwin, particularly impressed by his carom bowl.
Teammate Harmanpreet Kaur praised Deepti Sharma ahead of the final, acknowledging her hard work and talent and recognizing her as one of their essential bowlers. Deepti's brother, Sumit, a medium pacer who represented Uttar Pradesh in Under-19 and Under-23 tournaments, has also significantly supported her journey. Inspired by her natural throwing ability, former India player Hemlata Kala encouraged Deepti to switch from medium pace to off-spin.
Deepti Sharma's parents and brother always encouraged her passion for cricket. Sumit left his job to ensure Deepti had the best practice facilities in Agra and even collaborated with her childhood coach, Vipin Awasthi, to start a cricket academy.
Despite the disappointment of not winning the World Cup, Deepti Sharma and her family believe the experience will make her a stronger player. Harmanpreet also expressed her confidence in Deepti's potential, predicting a bright future for the young cricketer.
Deepti Sharma, acknowledging the increased recognition she would receive in her hometown, Agra, emphasised her determination to work harder and improve. She remains resolute in her dream to win a World Cup.
FAQs
What is Deepti Sharma's age?
Deepti Sharma was 19 years old during the World Cup, where she gained significant recognition.
What is a notable achievement from Deepti Sharma's stats?
Deepti scored 188 against Ireland in a quadrangular ODI tournament, the second-highest individual score in women's ODIs.
Who are Deepti Sharma's cricketer idols?
Deepti admires Australian captain Meg Lanning, Indian cricketer Suresh Raina, and Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin.
