India began their Women’s ODI World Cup campaign on a high as star all-rounder Deepti Sharma produced a match-winning performance to secure a 59-run victory over Sri Lanka in the opening clash. Combining grit with composure, Deepti shone with both bat and ball, proving once again why she is regarded as one of India’s most dependable performers on the big stage.
Batting first after winning the toss, India found themselves in early trouble as the top order struggled against Sri Lanka’s disciplined new-ball attack. With the score wobbling, Deepti Sharma walked in at a crucial juncture and steadied the innings with a fluent knock.
Mixing boundaries with smart rotation of strike, she stitched vital partnerships through the middle overs. Her well-crafted half-century not only lifted India past the 200-run mark but also gave the side momentum heading into the bowling phase.
Chasing a competitive target, Sri Lanka started with intent but soon ran into trouble once Deepti returned with the ball. Her accuracy and clever variations dismantled the Lankan middle order, breaking partnerships just when they threatened to rebuild. Supported ably by India’s spin attack, she finished with a three-wicket haul that left Sri Lanka reeling. Despite some resistance from their lower order, the required run rate climbed steeply, and India wrapped up the innings comfortably 59 runs ahead.
Speaking after the match, India’s captain praised Deepti’s all-round brilliance, calling her “the team’s backbone in pressure situations.” The win not only gave India a strong start in the tournament but also highlighted the balance and depth in their squad, with match-winners across departments.
For Sri Lanka, the defeat was a setback, but their fighting spirit and disciplined bowling in the first half showed promise for the games to come. They will need their batting unit to step up if they are to keep their campaign alive.
With this win, India have announced themselves as serious contenders for the title. If Deepti Sharma continues to deliver such all-round performances, the Women in Blue will be tough to stop in their quest for World Cup glory.
