As the India–Sri Lanka Women’s T20I series heads into its final chapter with the 5th T20I, there’s a deep sense of closure and reflection surrounding the match. For India, this isn’t just about sealing the series decisively; it’s an opportunity to reaffirm their identity in the T20 format: fearless at the top, composed in the middle, and tactically sharp with the ball. Three players stand out as key figures in this narrative: Shafali Verma, Smriti Mandhana, and Deepti Sharma. Each brings a unique flair to the game, and together, they embody what makes India formidable in T20 cricket.
Shafali Verma
Shafali is the embodiment of boldness, making her a powerhouse at the top of the order. With 2,457 runs and a strike rate exceeding 130 in her T20 career, she’s known for her fearless approach to batting. Rather than easing into her innings, she asserts herself from the get-go. In the fourth T20I, she exemplified her disruptive style, scoring an impressive 79 off just 46 balls, filled with 11 boundaries and 3 sixes. This performance not only marked her third consecutive half-century of the series but also established her as the leading run-scorer with a total of 236 runs. Beyond the runs, Shafali offers a psychological edge; bowlers dread the thought of wasting even a single delivery. Her explosive starts have the potential to shift the momentum in India’s favour right from the early overs.
Smriti Mandhana
In contrast to Shafali’s raw power, Smriti Mandhana delivers elegance with authority. As one of the most accomplished batters in Indian cricket, she has amassed 4,102 runs in T20 Internationals, marrying consistency with flair. Her skill in pacing innings, accelerating when necessary while maintaining shape, positions her as one of the most reliable openers in the game. During the last match, Mandhana played a crucial role, ensuring India remained on course after an aggressive start. Her 80 runs off 48 balls, featuring 11 boundaries and 3 sixes, were a testament to her versatility and stability. With her recent achievement of becoming the youngest and fastest woman to reach 10,000 runs in international cricket, her experience will be vital as India aims to navigate the disciplined Sri Lankan attack.
Deepti Sharma
While the batters often steal the spotlight, Deepti Sharma is the glue that holds the team together. With 1,100 runs and 151 wickets in her T20 career, her versatility as an all-rounder is invaluable. In the last match, Deepti demonstrated her calm presence, conceding only 31 runs in her four overs. Her ability to remain composed under pressure sets her apart; she handles challenging situations with a sense of calm that helps simplify complexities in crucial moments. As India gears up for the fifth T20I, the primary aim is clear: assert its dominance while maintaining high intensity. With Shafali’s fearless starts, Smriti’s steady influence, and Deepti’s all-round capabilities, the team has a robust mix of aggression, stability, and control. These players are not just statistics on paper; they significantly influence the game’s dynamic when it matters most.
As the 5th WT20I approaches, all eyes will be on Shafali Verma’s explosive starts, Smriti Mandhana’s sophistication, and Deepti Sharma’s control. They represent the depth and maturity of the Indian side, and if they find their rhythm again, India won’t just be aiming to win; they’ll be focusing on wrapping up the series with clarity and confidence.
Loves all things female cricket