India’s star off-spinner Deepti Sharma delivered an absolute bowling masterclass to hand Team India a dominant 64-run victory over arch-rivals Pakistan in their Women’s T20 World Cup opener at Edgbaston on Sunday.
Chasing a challenging target of 171, Pakistan initially got off to a quick start, scoring 52 runs in the powerplay. However, Deepti Sharma broke the momentum by removing openers Gull Feroza and Ayesha Zafar in quick succession.
She then turned the game completely in India’s favor by running out Pakistan’s top-scorer Muneeba Ali (41) with a sensational direct hit from backward point.
With this spectacular spell, the 28-year-old all-rounder also became the highest wicket-taker in the history of Women’s T20I cricket, scaling to 166 wickets in 145 matches.
“I always believe in myself that whenever the right time comes, I will step up,” Deepti said after the match. She explained that since the pitch was turning, varying her pace and slowing down the ball in the air was the key to her success.
Earlier in the day, India opted to bat first and posted a commanding total of 170 for 6 on the board. Vice-captain Smriti Mandhana anchored the innings beautifully with a classy 44-ball 68, stitching a vital 91-run partnership with skipper Harmanpreet Kaur (36).
Wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh then provided the late fireworks, blasting a rapid 34 runs off just 17 balls to take the game away from Pakistan.
Pakistan’s batting lineup collapsed under pressure, slipping from 75 for 4 to get bowled out for just 106 in 17 overs. Alongside Deepti’s five-wicket haul, young spinner Shree Charani bowled an exceptional supporting spell to claim 3 for 21.
This massive win gives the Women in Blue a huge net run rate boost ahead of their next Group match against the Netherlands at Headingley.
