Deepti Sharma credited the blessings of Hanuman Ji after she delivered the best bowling figures of her T20 World Cup career to help India beat Pakistan by 64 runs at Edgbaston in Birmingham.
The off-spinner was named Player of the Match after taking 5/10, leading a dramatic collapse that saw Pakistan go from a strong 75/3 to 106 all out in just 17 overs while chasing India's 170/6.
Deepti Sharma's Message After Career-Best Bowling Performance
Speaking after the match, Deepti made it clear where she felt the credit belonged. According to NDTV Sports, she said: "All credit goes to the team and I am very grateful, Hanuman Ji is great."
The experienced spinner said she enjoys bowling on pitches that support spin bowling, and her performance proved decisive in India's opening match of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup campaign.
How India Dominated Pakistan at Edgbaston
India set a strong total of 170/6 in their 20 overs. In reply, Pakistan started well at 75/3, but Deepti's spin bowling triggered a collapse that saw the last seven wickets fall for just 31 runs.
Deepti's figures of 5/10 are the best by an Indian bowler in Women's T20 World Cup history, underlining her importance to the team's campaign.
"All credit goes to the team, and I am very grateful, Hanuman Ji is great." — Deepti Sharma via NDTV Sports
Our Take: Faith and Form on the Big Stage
Deepti Sharma's performance was world-class by any measure. Taking 5/10 in a high-pressure match against Pakistan in a World Cup opener is no small feat. But what stood out was her honesty in crediting her faith. In our view, this is refreshing. Athletes often talk about mental strength and preparation, but Deepti openly acknowledged a spiritual source. It reminds us that for many players, belief goes beyond the boundary rope. The win puts India in a strong position early in the tournament, and if Deepti continues this form, India will be a tough side to beat.