India all-rounder Deepti Sharma credited calmness, clarity, and collective belief within the bowling unit after her five-wicket haul powered India to a commanding win over Pakistan in their Women’s T20 World Cup opener.
Deepti produced a match-winning spell to turn the contest on its head after Pakistan had made a promising start to their chase. She described the performance as one of the most special of her career, especially in an ICC tournament, where she played a central role in breaking the opposition’s momentum.
Speaking about the team’s approach during pressure moments, Deepti revealed that the message from the dressing room was to stay composed and focus only on the next ball.
“At the first drinks break, the discussion was about stepping up because we know the quality in our side. Even if you go for runs in one over, it doesn’t matter because you get another chance in the next. The message was to forget what happened in the previous over and focus on what you can do next,” Deepti told JioStar.
She added that the leadership group ensured a positive environment, which helped the bowlers recover quickly after setbacks and eventually trigger a collapse in Pakistan’s innings.
Deepti also highlighted the importance of backing natural skills, especially for younger bowlers in the squad.
“My message to the youngsters is to stick to what has been working for them. Read the conditions, back your strengths, and trust your plans. If you execute with self-belief, success will follow,” she said.
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The all-rounder also praised India’s improved fielding performance, which played a key role in restricting Pakistan after a sharp pre-tournament focus on fitness and fielding drills.
“We worked a lot on fielding at the Centre of Excellence before the World Cup. It’s great to see that effort reflect on the field through those crucial catches,” she added.
Deepti, known for her consistency in ICC tournaments, said her approach remains unchanged regardless of opposition or occasion.
“I enjoy ICC tournaments. I approach every game with the same mindset, whether it is Pakistan or any other team,” she said.
Looking ahead to India’s next match against the Netherlands at Headingley, Deepti expressed confidence in the team’s ability to adapt quickly to English conditions, having already played a series in the country.
“We’ve had experience playing in England recently, so we understand the conditions. We’ll use the practice sessions well and carry the positives into the next game,” she said.
India will next face the Netherlands in Leeds on Wednesday.