Former India captain Anjum Chopra has voiced strong criticism regarding all-rounder Deepti Sharma’s decision-making during India’s narrow four-run defeat to England in the Women’s ODI World Cup. The loss marked India’s third consecutive setback in the tournament. While Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur displayed commendable batting prowess, their impressive partnership unraveled, leading to a batting collapse.
Deepti Sharma, who batted composedly for a significant part of her innings, ultimately fell victim to Sophie Ecclestone while attempting an aerial shot towards the longest boundary. Chopra deemed this shot selection ‘unnecessary,’ particularly against a potent spinner like Ecclestone in a high-pressure situation. “It was virtually a run-a-ball equation. You have to understand how much hard work goes into getting your team into such a position,” Chopra remarked, emphasizing the value of the partnership built by Mandhana and Kaur. She added, “The same goes for Deepti. Why play an aerial shot on the biggest boundary against Sophie Ecclestone when it’s not needed? It was unnecessary.”
Despite her critique, Chopra acknowledged Deepti’s overall development and positive contributions. “Deepti, in particular, has impressed over the last 12 months. Not only with her batting and bowling, but also her growing understanding of the game,” she stated. Chopra highlighted Deepti’s effective strike rotation and sensible approach after Harmanpreet’s dismissal. However, she also pointed to fielding lapses as a significant factor, suggesting that saving 20-30 extra runs could have altered the outcome of the match.