Women's World Cup: Deepti Sharma scripts history with all-round feat
What's the story
India's star all-rounder Deepti Sharma has made history by becoming the first cricketer ever to achieve a double of 200 runs and 20 wickets in a single edition of the ICC Women's World Cup. This unprecedented achievement was the result of her consistent performance throughout the tournament. Notably, Deepti took a fifer besides scoring a fifty in the final clash versus South Africa as India lifted the title for the first time. Here are further details.
Final match impact
Final match highlights
In the World Cup final, India set a target of 299 runs for South Africa. Deepti played a crucial role in this innings, scoring a composed 58 runs. She was instrumental in stabilizing India's innings and delivered a decisive bowling performance, including a best of 5/39. Her all-round performance helped India clinch their maiden Women's World Cup title and earned her the Player of the Tournament award.
Record breaker
Impressive WC numbers for Deepti
Deepti's achievement of scoring 200 runs and taking 20 wickets in a single Women's World Cup edition is unprecedented, as per ESPNcricinfo. Across nine matches, she scored 215 runs at an average of 30.71 with three half-centuries. With the ball, she was the tournament's highest wicket-taker with 22 wickets at an average of 24.11, including a best of 5/39 in the final against South Africa.
Pressure handling
I always enjoy whatever department I'm in, says Deepti
When asked about her ability to perform under pressure, Deepti said she enjoys challenges. She said, "I always enjoy whatever department I'm in, whatever situation I'm in, because I like challenges." It must be noted that Deepti is the first cricketer to score a fifty and bag five wickets in a World Cup knockout game - men's or women's. No other Indian boasts this double in WODIs.