In a remarkable display of skill and prowess, Indian all-rounder Deepti Sharma etched her name in history by securing a hat-trick in the Women’s Premier League (WPL). This extraordinary feat makes Deepti the first Indian player to achieve a hat-trick in the prestigious tournament. The scintillating performance unfolded during the match between UP Warriorz and Delhi Capitals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi.
Deepti’s heroics with the ball played a pivotal role in UP Warriorz clinching a nail-biting 1-run victory, thereby adding crucial points to their tally. Executing the hat-trick across two spells, Deepti showcased her bowling mastery to dismantle the Delhi Capitals’ innings as they pursued a target of 139 runs.
The 26-year-old off-spinner’s magic began on the last ball of the 14th over when she trapped Delhi Capitals captain Meg Lanning, who was leading a strong chase with a score of 60. This crucial breakthrough disrupted the hosts’ momentum and set the stage for Deepti’s extraordinary bowling display.
Returning for the penultimate over, Deepti continued her onslaught by dismissing Annabel Sutherland and Arundhati Reddy in consecutive deliveries, completing a rare hat-trick. Sutherland fell for a meagre 6, while Reddy attempted a big shot but was caught by Grace Harris, departing with a golden duck.
Deepti’s relentless assault on the Delhi Capitals’ batting lineup didn’t conclude there. In the same over, she secured the wicket of Shikha Pandey, further denting their chase. Concluding her spell with outstanding figures of 4/19 in four overs, Deepti single-handedly turned the tide in UP Warrior’s favor.
Despite Delhi Capitals appearing in control, reaching 93 in the 14th over, Deepti’s masterful bowling, particularly Lanning’s dismissal, emerged as the turning point of the match. Her strategic brilliance and ability to break crucial partnerships showcased her value as a match-winner.
Deepti Sharma Becomes Second Player to Take a Hat-Trick in WPL History
Deepti Sharma’s hat-trick also marked her as the second bowler in the Women’s Premier League to achieve this remarkable feat, following in the footsteps of Mumbai Indians’ Issy Wong, who accomplished the milestone last year.
In addition to her exceptional bowling, Deepti made significant contributions with the bat. Promoted to the number 3 spot, she collaborated with Healy to stitch a crucial 46-run partnership for the second wicket. Deepti’s impressive innings, scoring 59 off 48 balls with six boundaries and a six, helped UP Warriorz post a challenging total of 138 for 8.
The Lucknow-based franchise secured their second win of the season, and Deepti Sharma’s multifaceted brilliance undoubtedly played a pivotal role in their success. Her historic hat-trick will be etched in the Women’s Premier League cricket annals, underscoring Deepti’s exceptional prowess as an all-rounder.
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