IND vs AUS: Deepti Sharma becomes fourth Indian to cross 100-wicket mark in ODIs

Deepti Sharma (Photo Source: X/Twitter)

Deepti Sharma, the accomplished all-rounder, achieved a significant milestone by completing 100 wickets for India in WODIs during the third and final match against Australia at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Tuesday, January 02. This remarkable feat occurred in her 86th appearance in the 50-over format.

Surpassing Rajeshwari Gayakwad’s 99 wickets, Deepti became the fourth Indian cricketer to reach a century of wickets in ODIs, equalling the legendary Nooshin Al Khadeer’s tally. She now stands behind Jhulan Goswami (255) and Neetu David (141) in the list of highest wicket-takers for India in women’s ODIs. Deepti reached the 100-wicket mark by dismissing Phoebe Litchfield. It was a crucial wicket considering Litchfield’s impressive 119-run innings and her substantial 189-run opening partnership with captain Alyssa Healy.

Moreover, in the second ODI, the all-rounder showcased her bowling prowess by securing a record five-wicket haul. This outstanding performance played a crucial role in limiting the visitors to 258/8 in 50 overs, despite falling short by three runs. Notably, she also became the first Indian bowler to claim a five-for against the Aussies in ODIs.

Litchfield, Healy power Australia to whitewash in Wankhede

Australia, who were coming on the back of a 2-0 lead, displayed a more dominating performance in the series finale at Wankhede. Batting first, the opening duo of Litchfield and Healy engaged in a mammoth 189-run stand. Later, cameos by lower middle-order batters—Ashleigh Gardner (30), Alana King (26*), and Annabel Sutherland (23), ensured that the visitors posted a target of 339 in 50 overs.

During the chase, the hosts never really looked settled, losing the wickets of Yastika Bhatia and Smriti Mandhana within the first powerplay. Then, Georgia Wareham dismissed the likes of skipper Harmanpreet Kaur and Richa Ghosh. No Indian batter could reach the score of even 30, and were eventually bundled out for 148 in the 33rd over, as Healy & Co. managed a clean sweep to end the series unassailed. For an impressive ton throughout the series, Litchfield was handed Player of the Match as well as the Player of the Series.