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Deepti Sharma has a knack for creating history. Her recent performance in the ICC Women's T20 World Cup match against the West Indies is a testament to that. She played a pivotal role in dismantling the West Indies batting order by taking three wickets. She achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first Indian bowler, regardless of gender, to bag 100 wickets in T20 internationals. This is a monumental achievement, and the cricket world took notice.
Deepti Sharma's incredible talent as an all-rounder is well-recognized, but this bowling milestone is particularly awe-inspiring.
With this achievement, she surpassed the following Indian cricketers in the wicket tally:
Moreover, when compared to male cricketers, she left behind the likes of:
During a post-match conference, Deepti Sharma expressed her satisfaction with her performance and milestone achievement. She mentioned how the team's planning and strategy against the West Indies batters worked well in the middle. Despite this milestone, she emphasised her focus on the remaining World Cup matches and noted the helpful turn in the surface, which she exploited by bowling stump to stump.
Given her current form, India has high hopes for Deepti and expects her to deliver stellar performances throughout the T20 World Cup. Additionally, Theranchise picked her for a hefty sum of INR 2.6 Crores in the Women's Premier League Auctions, making her the third-highest earner in the auction. Given her recent achievements and milestones, she is expected to perform outstandingly in the inaugural league.
Born in Agra, Deepti Bhagwan Sharma had her priorities straight from a young age. At a time when her peers were engrossed in social media, Deepti Sharma was focused on cricket. She only became acquainted with technology when she needed to join a common WhatsApp group for the Indian squad members. Through this group, it was about the impact of her innings against Ireland in May 2017, where she scored 188, the second-highest individual score in Women's ODIs. This innings, alongside Punam Raut, led to a record 320-run opening stand, the highest in international cricket and the first 300-run partnership in women's cricket.
Despite her obvious talent, Deepti Sharma faced challenges on her journey. Initially, she was overlooked for state selections due to her age (below 15). However, Kala ensured she gained experience by taking her to nets at the Railway Camps in Delhi and Allahabad. Over time, Deepti's all-around skills attracted the attention of Rita Dey, a former Indian batter and selector who mentored her.
Interestingly, off-spin was not Deepti's natural skill. She initially tried medium-pace but switched to slow bowling upon the recommendation of selectors and local coaches. This switch proved successful as Deepti mastered the art of spin, leveraging her height and natural ball release.
Since her debut, Deepti Sharma age has never been a factor, and she has consistently proven her worth in the national squad. Her primary skills include canny off-break bowling, gritty batting, and agile fielding, but her ability to assess situations makes her a potential future leader of the Indian side.
FAQs
When did Deepti Sharma make her international debut?
Deepti Sharma made her international debut on November 28, 2014, against South Africa in Bengaluru.
What is Deepti Sharma's record for the highest partnership in international cricket?
Deepti Sharma and Punam Raut hold the record for the highest opening stand in international cricket, a 320-run partnership against Ireland in May 2017.
Which franchise picked Deepti Sharma in the Women's Premier League Auctions, and for how much?
The UP Warriorz picked Deepti Sharma for INR 2.6 Crores in the Women's Premier League Auctions.
Did Deepti Sharma always bowl off-spin?
No, Deepti Sharma initially tried medium-pace but switched to slow bowling upon the recommendation of selectors and local coaches.
