(Source X)
Indian all-rounder Deepti Sharma delivered a match-winning performance for the London Spirit Women, securing their first title in the Women’s Hundred competition. The final was a thrilling contest, and Deepti emerged as the hero with a crucial six.
In the final moments, with London Spirit needing 10 runs from nine balls, the situation tightened to four runs off three deliveries. Deepti Sharma stepped up and hit a six off Hayley Mathews, clearing Shabnim Ismail’s outstretched hands at long-on.
Remaining composed under pressure, Deepti executed her shot flawlessly, scoring 16 runs off 16 balls and guiding her team to victory. The celebration in the London Spirit Women’s dressing room was electrifying, with players rushing to congratulate Deepti for her exceptional performance. Heather Knight’s relief was palpable as her team clinched their first-ever Women’s Hundred title.
Watch the Video-
Mel Jones’ commentary heightened the drama of the match, perfectly setting the scene for the thrilling finale. As India’s Deepti Sharma emerged as the standout performer, Spirit players and teammates celebrated together.
London Spirit, winning the toss, chose to field first. Sarah Glenn and Eva Gray each took two wickets, with Deepti Sharma adding one, limiting Welsh Fire to 115/8. Jess Jonassen anchored the innings with 54 off 41 balls, supported by contributions from Tammy Beaumont and Hayley Mathews.
In response, a collective effort from the London Spirit batters guided the team to victory. Wicketkeeper Georgia Redmayne led with 34, while Heather Knight (24) and Danielle Gibson (22) provided crucial runs. Deepti Sharma’s unbeaten 16, especially her decisive six, secured the win. Her all-round performance earned her the Player of the Match award.
“To hit the six to win the game, a great feeling, I was not nervous, I had confidence I could do it. I think positive!” said Deepti Sharma.
Skipper Heather Knight praised her team for their contributions to the victory and singled out Deepti Sharma for her exceptional performance with the bat. Deepti’s achievement underscored the significant role an Indian player can play in an international cricket league.
“Not the best watch to be honest, it was nervy chasing but Deepti is an experienced player, she held her nerves and did it for us. Our international players were great. Everyone has played their roles well. I think we recruited really well, picking Meg and Georgia.”
“Absolutely stoked with Deepti, she has been brilliant with both bat and ball. Eva Gray was good with the ball as well. So much goes into the tournament, thankful to the staff, it takes a lot of effort in franchise cricket” Heather Knight said in her post-match press conference comments.
