Indian spin all-rounder Deepti Sharma etched her name into the history books on Tuesday, becoming the leading wicket-taker in women's Twenty20 International cricket. She achieved this milestone during the fifth and final T20I against Sri Lanka at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram.
A Historic Wicket Seals the Record
The pivotal moment arrived when Deepti Sharma cleanly bowled Sri Lankan batter Nilakshika Silva. This dismissal was not just crucial for the match but also propelled her past Australian pace bowler Megan Schutt in the all-time standings. With that wicket, Deepti's tally rose to 152 wickets in the women's T20I format, moving one ahead of Schutt's count of 151.
Top of the Bowling Charts
This achievement places the Indian cricketer at the summit of an elite list. Pakistan's experienced all-rounder Nida Dar occupies the third position with 144 wickets. The top five is a testament to the global growth of women's cricket, featuring players from across the world.
Leading Wicket-Takers in Women's T20Is:
- Deepti Sharma (India) - 152 wickets
- Megan Schutt (Australia) - 151 wickets
- Nida Dar (Pakistan) - 144 wickets
- Henriette Ishimwe (Rwanda) - 144 wickets
- Sophie Ecclestone (England) - 142 wickets
Significance of the Milestone
Deepti Sharma's record is a significant landmark for Indian women's cricket, highlighting her consistency and skill as a premier bowler in the shortest format. Her ability to take wickets regularly, often in the middle overs, has been instrumental for India. Surpassing a bowler of Megan Schutt's caliber, known for her prowess in powerplays and death overs, makes this feat even more noteworthy.
The record was set in Thiruvananthapuram, a city that has become a regular host for women's international matches in recent years. This achievement adds another glorious chapter to Deepti Sharma's already impressive career and serves as a major inspiration for aspiring young cricketers across India and the globe.
