Indian all-rounder Deepti Sharma has achieved a career milestone by rising to No. 2 in the ICC Women’s ODI bowling rankings, following standout performances in the ongoing series against New Zealand. With a career-high rating of 687 points, Sharma now sits just behind the top-ranked Sophie Ecclestone, although there remains a substantial gap of 83 points between them.
In the first two ODIs of the series held in Ahmedabad, Sharma showcased her skills with the ball, claiming three wickets at an impressive economy rate of 3.42. Her pivotal contributions helped India secure victory in the first ODI, leveling the series 1-1 ahead of the third and final match today.
Sharma’s ascension in the rankings sees her surpass notable bowlers such as Kate Cross and Megan Schutt. Additionally, she has also made her mark in the T20I rankings, currently holding the No. 3 position behind Ecclestone and Sadia Iqbal.
The New Zealand side has also seen movement in the rankings, with Lea Tahuhu climbing three spots to No. 12, Amelia Kerr moving up to No. 13, and Sophie Devine jumping nine places to tie for No. 30 among bowlers. However, Kerr’s participation in the remainder of the series is in jeopardy due to a quadricep tear sustained during the first ODI.
Devine has been instrumental for New Zealand, scoring a solid 79 runs off 86 balls and taking three wickets for 27 runs in the second ODI, which marked New Zealand’s comeback in the series. She has also risen to No. 8 in the ODI batting rankings, joining fellow players Suzie Bates and Maddy Green, who have also seen gains in their positions.
For India, Jemimah Rodrigues has emerged as a key player, with her performance in the first ODI contributing to her gaining ground in the batting rankings. Both Deepti and Devine have made significant strides in the all-rounders’ table, with Devine moving to No. 7 and Deepti climbing to No. 4.
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As the series heads into its decisive final match, both teams are poised for an exciting showdown, with players on both sides eager to solidify their standings in the ICC rankings.
