The Women’s ODI World Cup began in Assam with the opening clash between India Women and the Lankan Lionesses, and the contest has already produced plenty of twists and turns. Batting first, India faced early struggles at 125 for 6, but a resilient century stand between Deepti Sharma and Amanjot Kaur lifted the Women in Blue to a competitive total of 271. The pair’s partnership not only rescued India but also gave the team momentum heading into the second innings. With the batters having done their job, it was now time for the all-rounders to step up with the ball.
While Amanjot Kaur couldn’t find a breakthrough, all eyes were on Deepti Sharma as she began her spell against Sri Lanka’s dangerous skipper Chamari Athapaththu. The start, however, was far from ideal. Athapaththu came out with intent, hammering Deepti for two fours and a six inside her first two overs. The Indian off-spinner found herself under immense pressure, conceding 23 runs from her opening 12 balls.
Despite the shaky beginning, Deepti’s determination never wavered. She regrouped quickly and was handed another chance to take on the Sri Lankan captain. In her third over, she tightened her line and length, giving away just two runs. Building the pressure, she saved her best for last, finally breaching Athapaththu’s defense and rattling her stumps with a delivery that turned the momentum back in India’s favor.
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The dismissal of Athapaththu was a pivotal moment in the contest. The Lankan skipper had been looking ominous at the crease with a fluent 43 off 47 deliveries, punishing anything loose. But Deepti’s persistence paid off, ending what could have been a match-defining innings. The celebration that followed showed just how much the wicket meant to her.
With a roar of relief and triumph, Deepti Sharma had her revenge against one of the most feared batters in women’s cricket. The battle between India’s premier spinner and Sri Lanka’s legendary opener had swung back in India’s favor, setting the tone for the rest of the innings. It was a statement wicket and a reminder of Deepti’s fighting spirit on the world stage.