India off-spin bowling all-rounder Deepti Sharma says her ongoing spell with Sunrisers Leeds in the women's edition of The Hundred is serving as a focused preparation ground ahead of the Women's Asia Cup, which gets underway on 28 August in Dubai. Speaking ahead of the tournament, Deepti outlined how the high-intensity franchise competition is helping her sharpen all three departments of her game.

Deepti's Form in The Hundred

Deepti has been among the standout performers in the competition, sitting as joint second-highest wicket-taker with 12 scalps for Sunrisers Leeds. Her returns with the ball underline a consistency that has made her one of the most reliable spinners in women's cricket globally. The all-rounder, who was named Player of the Tournament in India's 2025 Women's ODI World Cup triumph, is using the franchise window to stay match-sharp between international assignments.

What She Said About Asia Cup Preparation

'The Women's Asia Cup is starting from 28th August, and that is an important tournament for the Indian team,' Deepti said. 'Playing in The Hundred is giving me a great opportunity to work on my skills in all three departments — batting, bowling, and fielding. I am trying to make the most of this tournament so that I can go into the Asia Cup well prepared.'

She added that her efforts for Sunrisers Leeds were part of a longer growth arc: 'I am giving my best for Sunrisers Leeds, and that will help me grow as a player and also benefit the team in the long run.' Notably, she also flagged the Women's Champions Trophy in February 2027 as a longer-term target, but stressed that her current focus remains squarely on the immediate fixtures ahead.

The Leeds Experience

Deepti admitted that representing Sunrisers Leeds has carried a personal touch. 'I was very excited when I was picked for Sunrisers Leeds, because orange is my favourite colour,' she said. Playing at their home ground in Leeds before a packed, vocal crowd has added to the experience. 'The ground is full of Sunrisers fans, and everywhere I look, I see orange,' she noted, reflecting on the atmosphere that franchise cricket generates.

She credited the team environment for contributing to individual growth: 'As a team, we really appreciate each other's contributions, whether it's a good innings or a tight bowling spell. The more we learn from these experiences, the better it will be for us.'

On Wearing the Blue Jersey

Deepti spoke with evident pride about representing India on the international stage. 'When you wear the blue jersey, it fills you with pride — for yourself, for your family, and for your country. It's not just a jersey; it's the result of years of hard work and sacrifice,' she said. Her remarks reflect the weight Indian players attach to bilateral and multi-nation tournaments, where fan expectations run high.

'When expectations are high and you are able to deliver for the nation, that feeling is special. There is a responsibility that comes with it, but it's a responsibility we all welcome,' she added.

Thriving Under Pressure

Known for her composure in high-stakes situations, Deepti explained that pressure moments are ones she actively seeks out. 'I actually enjoy those pressure moments because they push me to perform better,' she said. 'I try to give more than 100% in every game I play, whether it's a big tournament or any other match.'

With the Women's Asia Cup just around the corner, Deepti's form and mindset will be central to India's campaign in Dubai. Her dual role as a match-winning spinner and a capable lower-order batter makes her one of the first names on the team sheet — and her preparation suggests she intends to arrive in peak condition.