Karachi: Deepti Sharma has emerged as a pivotal figure in India's unbeaten Women's Asia Cup campaign, propelling the team to the final with her consistent performances. In the semi-final, she claimed three wickets, aiding India in securing a 40-run victory over Bangladesh. As India prepares for the final, Sharma looks to continue her impactful all-round contributions.
According to International Cricket Council, Sharma's bowling prowess has been evident throughout the tournament. She has taken 11 wickets, making her the leading wicket-taker in the 2026 Women's Asia Cup. Additionally, she holds the record as the tournament's all-time leading wicket-taker with 37 dismissals. In the semi-final against Bangladesh, Sharma also contributed with the bat, scoring an unbeaten 13 off six balls to help India post a competitive total.
Reflecting on her role, Sharma stated her confidence in contributing both with the bat and ball, citing her origins as an all-rounder. India, having already bowled out Pakistan for 55 in the group stage, will face the winner of the semi-final between Pakistan and Sri Lanka in the final. Sharma emphasized India's focus on their own strategy, irrespective of their opponent.
India has a storied history in the Women's Asia Cup, reaching the final in every edition they have participated in and winning seven titles. Despite past defeats, the team remains focused on their collective performance. Fielding, however, remains an area of concern, as highlighted by the four dropped catches against Bangladesh. Sharma acknowledged ongoing efforts to improve but expressed confidence in the team's readiness for the final.
As India eyes another title, the team's attention now turns to executing their strategies and maintaining their unbeaten streak. The final is set for Sunday, September 13, where India aims to reclaim the championship.