"The feeling is completely different when you’re playing for your country": Cricketer Deepti Sharma
In our series Leading Ladies, we profile change-makers whose pursuit of excellence and challenging of conventions has inspired many to speak their minds
Deepti Sharma, a 28-year-old Indian all-rounder, has a quiet demeanour and carries herself with immense humility. On the field, she exudes confidence, a sharp presence of mind, and a fierce competitive spirit. We witnessed this as she helped the Indian team win its maiden Women’s World Cup against South Africa last night. She was crowned ‘Player of the Tournament’ for her spectacular game, which included 215 runs and 22 wickets. With that, she became the first player in World Cup history to exhibit such a performance, across male and female cricketers. In the final match itself, she chased down South Africa’s batting, taking 5 wickets in 9.3 overs. Her impressive performance at this year’s World Cup is being touted as her redemption arc after the 2017 one, which India had lost.
While sportspersons go through their share of ups and downs, Sharma has given us many milestone moments to remember. For instance, when she ran out Charlie Dean at the non-striker’s end after multiple warnings for stepping too far out. That moment sealed India’s ODI victory against England and became one of the most talked-about highlights of the match. She later hugged Dean, showcasing the sportsmanship that defines her game. In the final ODI against the West Indies last year, she became the only Indian player to claim two six-wicket hauls—an achievement that cemented her legacy.
Sharma’s rising stature in the sport was further recognised when she joined UP Warriorz in the Women’s Premier League for ₹2.6 crores, making her the second-highest-paid player after the Indian national team’s vice captain, Smriti Mandhana. She is the ultimate Sharma ji ki beti, but one who actually motivates us to strive for our dreams because of the grace with which she holds her extraordinary achievements.
She has reached the potential that former Indian cricketer Hemlata Kala once predicted, when she saw an eight-year-old Sharma accompanying her brother at his cricket practice. She loved the game but remained on the sidelines—until one day, a ball rolled toward her. Without hesitation, Sharma threw it back, hitting the stumps from 40 meters away. Kala, who was coaching a girls’ team nearby, was stunned. She saw something special in her and encouraged her to start training. From that moment, there was no looking back—Sharma had found her calling.
Celebrating her win, we look back at a conversation Deepti Sharma had with Tweak India, where she spoke about her journey, the highs and lows of her profession and how she powers through.
Cricket Deepti Sharma talks about what it takes to be consistent
What’s one area you improved in since you first started? Take us through the journey.
In cricket, many times, we are in high-pressure situations, often with the hopes of an entire country on our shoulders. It’s tough. Like us, the opposite team are also great players and come with ambition too. Over time, I realised that when you play a match, you have to stay calm and composed. By doing that, you can have a better presence of mind, can make smarter decisions, and can easily come out of tough situations.
What is one thing that you still find challenging?
This is the first time I have taken up a leadership role in the Women’s Premier League and I’m still learning. I’ve already learned a lot, and next time, when I get such responsibilities, I want to do even better.
What’s been a defining moment in your career?
One of my biggest moments was when I scored 188 runs against Ireland in South Africa in 2017, in the women’s one-day internationals. That was the match where Poonam Raut and I created a world record of the highest runs, totalling 320, scored in an opening partnership. This made us beat not only the previous records in women’s, but also men’s cricket. It was a big moment, because we were representing India. The feeling is completely different when you’re playing for your country, the flag on your jersey and the national anthem being played—it fills my heart with so much gratitude.
What’s a piece of advice that’s made a big impact in your work?
The best advice actually comes from my mother, who doesn’t have a lot of knowledge of cricket, but she’s a wise woman who has many years behind her. Every time I have a match, my mother prays for me and my team. She has been there throughout and knows my journey in and out, more than anyone else. She always tells me, ‘don’t let victories or defeats get to your head. Just keep moving forward’. Her words helped me, I don’t let my morale get affected when a match doesn’t go well and I stay humble, even during big wins.
Many women underplay their achievements. How do you own your big wins?
In cricket, I believe your performance is out there for the world to see. The statistics are there too. Even if I don’t talk about my achievements, the numbers say it all. In terms of performance, some people may appreciate it and some may criticise you. But as long as I know I gave it my best and did well, it’s enough for me. But otherwise, I have been fortunate because I have received a lot of opportunities and I am grateful for them.
When you’re going through a tough time in your career, how do you not let self-doubt creep in?
Every player goes through ups and downs. Sometimes, despite your best efforts, things don’t go your way. In those moments, it’s easy to overthink, especially when you’re alone. But my family has always been my biggest support system. They remind me of how far I’ve come and encourage me to keep pushing forward. I focus on improvement and trust the process.
One piece of advice you’d like to give aspiring cricketers.
There are no shortcuts. Consistency is everything. Train with discipline and honesty. Put in the hours. Listen to your coaches and mentors—they are there to guide you, even when it feels tough. Learn from their experiences. And once you make it, never forget the people who supported you along the way. Cricket is a team sport, and success is never achieved alone. Most importantly, don’t give up on your dreams. Be patient, stay persistent, and trust that things will work out if you keep giving your best.
