Deepti Sharma, the 28-year-old all-rounder from Agra, India, created history in the 2025 ICC Women’s World Cup by becoming the first cricketer, male or female, to score over 200 runs and take more than 20 wickets in a single World Cup edition.
Across nine matches, she amassed 215 runs at an average of 30.71 with a strike rate of 90.71, including three half-centuries. Equally impressive was her bowling achievement, leading as the highest wicket-taker in the tournament with 22 wickets at an average of 24.11.
This combined feat not only broke existing records for Indian cricket but set a new standard globally, symbolising a breakthrough in all-round excellence in women’s cricket.
Decisive Final Match Heroics
In the nail-biting final against South Africa held at Mumbai, Deepti’s performance was pivotal on both fronts. She scored a composed 58 runs, stabilising the Indian innings after early wickets and forging key partnerships with captain Harmanpreet Kaur and wicketkeeper Richa Ghosh, pushing India’s score to 298/7.
With the ball, she delivered an outstanding five-wicket haul for 39 runs, dismantling South Africa’s chase with dismissals of crucial players including captain Laura Wolvaardt and Annerie Dercksen. This disciplined bowling effort broke the momentum of the South African innings, helping India secure a 52-run victory and its first Women’s World Cup title.
Deepti became the first Indian woman to take five wickets in a Women’s World Cup final, matching the legacy of England’s Anya Shrubsole from 2017.
Background and Road to Glory
India’s journey to the 2025 World Cup title was marked by steady improvement and resilience in high-pressure matches. The team had faced heartbreak in previous tournaments, including the 2017 final loss and 2023 semifinal disappointments.
This victory was a culmination of years of growth, both in skill and team spirit. The final was interrupted by a rain delay yet saw India maintain composure, led strategically by captain Harmanpreet Kaur. Deepti’s performance resonated as a personal and collective redemption, making her a central figure in one of the most celebrated moments in Indian cricket.
The victory sparked jubilant celebrations nationwide, including emotional scenes at Deepti’s hometown, highlighting the increased visibility and support for women’s cricket in India.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Deepti Sharma’s extraordinary achievement is a beacon for empowerment, challenging long-held perceptions about women’s sports. It underlines the profound impact of equal opportunities and sustained investment in nurturing talent across genders.
This landmark victory is more than just a sporting milestone; it fosters hope, unity, and pride while promoting a culture of empathy and inclusion. It invites reflection on how sport can be a vehicle for positive social change by inspiring young girls and dismantling stereotypes.
2⃣1⃣5⃣ runs 👏
— BCCI Women (@BCCIWomen) November 2, 2025
2⃣2⃣ wickets 💪
Leading wicket-taker of #CWC25 ✨
Presenting the Player of the Tournament in #TeamIndia's World Cup-winning campaign – The ever dependable Deepti Sharma 🥳
Scorecard ▶ https://t.co/TIbbeE4ViO#WomenInBlue | #INDvSA | #Final | @Deepti_Sharma06 pic.twitter.com/kF0tkf4f46
