At the prestigious Hindustan Times Leadership Summit on December 6, 2025, a fascinating nickname for Indian cricket star Deepti Sharma was explained by her head coach. Amol Muzumdar, the leader of the Indian women's cricket team, revealed why he often refers to the all-rounder as 'Stokesy', drawing a direct parallel to England's legendary captain, Ben Stokes.
The 'Stokesy' Comparison: Left-Hand Bat, Right-Arm Throw
Muzumdar detailed several key similarities that prompted the comparison. He pointed out that both Deepti Sharma and Ben Stokes are left-handed batters and right-arm bowlers. Their typical batting position at number six in the lineup is another shared trait. However, the coach emphasized that their most significant commonality is an unwavering commitment and tireless work ethic.
"Deepti Sharma never misses a match and works as hard as Stokes does," Muzumdar stated, highlighting her dedication. But the comparison reached its peak when he described her powerful throwing arm. "Above all, I think her throw resembles Ben Stokes'. The throw is the most important. If you blink, you'll know it. You'll wear it," he said, vividly illustrating the sheer force behind her returns from the field.
The Throw That Changed Everything: A 9-Year-Old's Destiny
When asked to share a personal story, Deepti Sharma took the audience back to the very moment that set her on the path to cricket stardom. At just nine years old, she was watching her brother play a match, sitting on the stairs. A player casually passed the ball towards her, and she threw it back with equal nonchalance.
That casual throw, however, hit the stumps directly, stunning everyone present. The people watching immediately told her brother that his sister possessed a natural talent and must start playing cricket seriously. They believed she could one day make the nation proud. "That single throw changed her life," Sharma confirmed, marking it as the inspiration to pursue the sport.
On whether she trained specifically for that powerful throw, Sharma credited both nature and nurture. "I think I can say that it is natural. I mean, when the journey started with this, I can say it is natural. Plus, I also work on my strength. So, I think it has also developed a lot," she explained. Notably, Sharma also mentioned she has not yet had the opportunity to meet Ben Stokes in person.
Pride of Agra and World Cup Glory
The accolades for Deepti Sharma extend far beyond nicknames. In her hometown of Agra, a road has been officially renamed in her honour. The stretch leading to her home in Avadhpuri Colony is now called "Arjuna Awardee Cricketer Deepti Sharma Marg", commemorating her receiving the prestigious Arjuna Award.
Reflecting on the pinnacle of her career—India's recent World Cup victory under captain Harmanpreet Kaur—Sharma expressed profound joy and pride. "Honestly, right now, it feels like we’ve finally done something. The moment we had been waiting for so long has actually arrived," she said.
She described the overwhelming feeling of a long-held dream coming true and the special recognition that follows. "It feels wonderful when you go into your society and people recognise you by your name... It makes you feel very proud." This sentiment captures the journey of a player whose natural talent, discovered in a childhood moment, combined with Stokes-like commitment to help bring a World Cup home to India.
