3 surprising facts about Deepti Sharma

Deepti Sharma is widely regarded as one of the most complete all-rounders in modern women’s cricket. Known for her calm batting approach and highly effective off-spin, she has consistently influenced matches across formats for India. While her numbers in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is already place her among the elite performers, there are several lesser-known and surprising aspects of her journey that highlight how unconventional and inspiring her rise has been.

Here are three unknown facts about Deepti Sharma:

1. Record-breaking ODI innings for India

One of the most remarkable achievements in Deepti Sharma’s career is her highest individual score in Women’s One Day Internationals. In a match against Ireland Women in 2017 at Potchefstroom, she scored an exceptional 188 runs off 160 balls. This remains one of the highest ODI scores by an Indian woman cricketer.

Her innings included 27 fours and two sixes, showcasing her ability to build a long innings while maintaining an aggressive strike rate. The knock came in a dominant Indian total of 358/2, and she played a crucial role in a strong partnership with Punam Raut, underlining her ability to anchor and accelerate depending on match situations.

2. Began her career as a fast bowler

Before becoming one of India’s leading spin all-rounders, Deepti’s early cricketing foundation was actually as a fast bowler. During her formative years, she bowled medium-fast deliveries, using her natural height and athletic build to generate bounce and pace. However, her coaches later observed that her bowling action, control, and natural rhythm were better suited to spin bowling.

With guidance and training, she transitioned into off-spin, where she developed exceptional control, flight, and variation. This transformation ultimately shaped her into one of the most reliable spin bowlers in international women’s cricket.

3. Discovered during a casual moment at a training ground

Deepti’s entry into structured cricket came through an unexpected moment. As a child, she often accompanied her elder brother to a cricket academy in Agra. During one such visit, she casually threw a ball that unexpectedly hit the stumps, catching the attention of former India cricketer and selector Hemlata Kala.

Recognizing her natural athletic ability, Kala encouraged her to pursue the sport more seriously and helped guide her early development. Deepti has also often spoken about her admiration for Suresh Raina, whose fielding style and energy she tried to emulate during her formative years. This early encouragement played a key role in shaping her disciplined approach and sharp fielding skills.