India’s ace spinner Deepti Sharma stole the show in the 3rd and final ODI of the series against the West Indies, delivering a match-winning performance with figures of 6/31. With this exceptional spell, Deepti now holds the record for the most five-wicket hauls (3) by an Indian bowler in the ODI format.
After electing to bat first, the West Indies crumbled to 162 under the relentless pressure of India’s bowlers. Renuka Singh set the tone early by taking three quick wickets, putting the visitors on the back foot. However, it was Deepti Sharma who took center stage, decimating the middle and lower order with a masterclass in spin bowling.
Deepti’s first breakthrough came when she broke a crucial 91-run partnership between Shemaine Campbelle and Chinelle Henry, dismissing Campbelle for 46. In her very next over, she sent Zaida James back to the pavilion, leaving the Windies struggling at 102/5.
Henry, the top scorer for the visitors with a gritty 61, tried to stage a recovery alongside Aaliyah Alleyne in a 39-run stand. However, Deepti once again turned the tide, bowling Henry with a delivery that crashed into the stumps. She followed this up by dismissing Aaliya Alleyne for 21, effectively ending the West Indies’ hopes of setting a competitive target.
Deepti’s brilliance continued as she cleaned up the tail, removing Afy Fletcher and Mandy Mangru, the latter falling on the final delivery of Deepti’s spell. Her 6/31 in ten overs, which included three maidens, also are the best figures against the West Indies in Women’s ODIs.
The West Indies were bowled out for a modest 162, leaving India with a target of 163 to complete a comprehensive 3-0 whitewash.
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