What Inspired Deepti Sharma to Start Playing Cricket?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Deepti Sharma's journey began with encouragement from her brother.
- She emerged as the top wicket-taker in the Women's World Cup 2025.
- Sharma scored a crucial 58 runs in the final match.
- Support from family is essential in pursuing sports.
- India's victory in the Women's World Cup marked a historic achievement.
New Delhi, Dec 6 (NationPress) All-rounder Deepti Sharma shared the pivotal moment that transformed her life, crediting her elder brother for recognizing her potential and encouraging her to pursue cricket.
In their third appearance at the 50-over World Cup final, the Indian team, captained by Harmanpreet Kaur, triumphed over the side led by Laura Wolvaardt, clinching the World Cup trophy and marking a historic achievement as the first world champions in Indian women's cricket. This victory also put an end to the Indian women's cricket team’s ICC Trophy drought.
Deepti Sharma, the experienced off-spinner, led the wicket-takers with 22 dismissals, becoming the most successful bowler of the Women's World Cup 2025, while amassing 215 runs, including three half-centuries, earning her the title of MVP for the tournament. In the final against South Africa, she scored a resilient 58 and took 5-39, cementing India’s victory.
In a conversation with Amitabh Bachchan, Deepti reflected on how his encouragement was instrumental in her early cricketing journey.
Looking back at her childhood, Deepti recounted, “I started playing cricket because of my brother. I used to go to the ground just to watch him play. One day, while sitting on the stairs, a ball came towards me. I threw it back from about 40–50 metres, hitting the stumps directly. Everyone there immediately exclaimed, ‘This girl should be playing cricket.’ From that day onward, I pursued the sport seriously.”
Sharma's brother expressed his pride, stating, “I am proud to be known as Deepti’s brother,” acknowledging her remarkable journey. He even recited a heartfelt poem dedicated to Amitabh Bachchan, adding a special touch to the episode.
India posted a commanding score of 298/7, featuring Shafali Verma’s impressive 87, Deepti Sharma’s solid 58, along with significant contributions from Smriti Mandhana (45) and Richa Ghosh (34). A strong opening partnership of 100 runs between Mandhana and Verma set the tone for a formidable total, although South Africa managed to fight back late, narrowly keeping India below 300.