In a remarkable display of skill and tenacity, Indian all-rounder Deepti Sharma has etched her name into cricket history books by accomplishing a feat no other Asian player has against the formidable Australian women’s cricket team. Sharma’s performance is not just a personal triumph but also a source of pride for Indian cricket, showcasing the team’s growing prowess on the international stage.
During the second ODI between India and Australia held at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium, Sharma showcased her prowess with the ball by claiming an impressive five-for, thus leading her team to a significant victory. Her bowling figures of 5/38 make her the first Asian player to achieve such a milestone in the 50-over format against Australia — a team known for its batting dominance.
The last best performance by an Asian bowler against the Australian women’s team came from India’s own Sandra Braganza in the ODI World Cup of 1982. In this match, an International XI Women’s team competed against Australia, and Braganza secured 4/24. This commendable effort remained the record for an Asian player against Australia in a women’s ODI until Sharma’s recent accomplishment.
There are a few other Asian women who have had notable performances against Australia, but none had reached the hallmarks set by Sharma. Below are some of the best figures by Asian bowlers in ODIs against Australia:
– Deepti Sharma (India) – 5/38
– Sandra Braganza (India) – 4/24
– Nooshin Al Khadeer (India) – 4/41
– Rumeli Dhar (India) – 4/53
– Jhulan Goswami (India) – 3/6
– Shashi Gupta (India) – 3/19
Sharma’s historic five-wicket haul was crucial in stalling Australia’s progress. Particularly impressive was her performance in the final over, where she took two wickets, which played a substantial role in halting the momentum of the Australian team.
On her first ball of the final over, she dismissed Georgia Wareham, which saw the Australian team drop to seven down with a score of 216 at 45.1 overs. The very next ball targeted Alana King, which initially appeared to be an LBW, but upon review, the decision was overturned. Undeterred, Sharma claimed her fifth wicket — and her piece of history — on the fifth delivery by catching and bowling Annabel Sutherland.
While India triumphed in Sharma’s record-making match, it wasn’t all smooth sailing for the Women in Blue. They faced challenges in the field, including several dropped chances, reflecting fielding areas that needed improvement. This was not the first instance in the series where fielding proved to be India’s weaker aspect, as similar issues were observed in the first ODI, which resulted in an 8-wicket defeat.
Nevertheless, the series has provided a shining moment for Indian cricket with Deepti Sharma at its core. Such performances only serve to inspire the next generation of cricketers while demonstrating the potential and skill present in the current lineup.
The prowess displayed by Sharma and her teammates highlights a forward momentum for the Indian women’s cricket team, suggesting that they could well be on their way to becoming a dominant force in the world of international women’s cricket. The series thus far has proven to be an enticing battle, with the latest game not just a win on the field but also for the cricketing records, thanks to Sharma’s exceptional bowling performance.
