World Record: Deepti Sharma Scripts History as the Highest Wicket-Taker in Women’s T20Is
Indian women’s cricket star Deepti Sharma has made history by becoming the leading wicket-taker in Women’s T20 Internationals (WT20Is) a monumental achievement that reflects her enduring class, consistency, and match-winning abilities as a bowler. The 28-year-old reached the milestone by claiming her 152nd wicket in the fifth and final T20I against Sri Lanka at Thiruvananthapuram, overtaking Australia’s Megan Schutt to top the all-time list.
The historic moment came late in the 14th over of India’s series-deciding victory, when Deepti dismissed Nilakshika Silva leg-before-wicket. India went on to complete a 5-0 clean sweep over Sri Lanka, underscoring their dominance in the series and providing the perfect backdrop for Deepti’s record-breaking feat. Deepti’s achievement is more than just a number, it's a testament to her longevity and consistency at the highest level of women’s cricket. Her 152 WT20I wickets place her at the summit ahead of Megan Schutt (151), with Rwanda’s Henriette Ishimwe and Pakistan’s Nida Dar close behind. Being the first Indian bowler male or female to top an all-time T20I wicket list highlights her unique place in India’s cricket history.
Deepti’s record-setting year follows a remarkable 2025 campaign in which she was also instrumental in India’s success at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, where she showcased her all-round talent. Her ability to deliver consistently with the ball, combined with useful contributions with the bat, has made her one of the most valuable players in the game. In addition to her wicket-taking prowess, she has also been a mainstay at the top of the ICC T20I bowling rankings, cementing her reputation as the best in the format.
Beyond world records, Deepti’s contributions helped signal a broader shift in the landscape of women’s cricket. India’s women’s team has grown into a global powerhouse over the last decade, blending experienced campaigners with exciting young talent. Players such as Shafali Verma have risen through the ranks in both batting and bowling standings, showing the depth of Indian women’s cricket and its capacity to produce world-class performers.
Deepti’s journey to the top of the T20I wicket chart has been shaped by years of disciplined performance. She began her international career in 2016 and quickly established herself as a reliable spinner with a fiery competitive edge. Over 133 WT20I matches, she has maintained an impressive bowling average and economy rate, proving resilient against international opponents from around the world.
Her record is even more remarkable considering the increased competitiveness of women’s T20 cricket, with more teams playing regularly and elevating standards across the format. Deepti’s ability to adapt and thrive in evolving conditions speaks to her technical skill and mental strength.
As Deepti Sharma celebrates this historic milestone, young cricketers in India and across the globe are sure to find inspiration in her achievements. She not only redefined possibility in women’s T20 cricket but also reinforced the importance of perseverance and excellence in sport. With eyes already turning to future tournaments including the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 the cricket world will undoubtedly watch closely as Deepti continues to add chapters to her already extraordinary career.
The historic moment came late in the 14th over of India’s series-deciding victory, when Deepti dismissed Nilakshika Silva leg-before-wicket. India went on to complete a 5-0 clean sweep over Sri Lanka, underscoring their dominance in the series and providing the perfect backdrop for Deepti’s record-breaking feat. Deepti’s achievement is more than just a number, it's a testament to her longevity and consistency at the highest level of women’s cricket. Her 152 WT20I wickets place her at the summit ahead of Megan Schutt (151), with Rwanda’s Henriette Ishimwe and Pakistan’s Nida Dar close behind. Being the first Indian bowler male or female to top an all-time T20I wicket list highlights her unique place in India’s cricket history.
Deepti’s record-setting year follows a remarkable 2025 campaign in which she was also instrumental in India’s success at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, where she showcased her all-round talent. Her ability to deliver consistently with the ball, combined with useful contributions with the bat, has made her one of the most valuable players in the game. In addition to her wicket-taking prowess, she has also been a mainstay at the top of the ICC T20I bowling rankings, cementing her reputation as the best in the format.
Beyond world records, Deepti’s contributions helped signal a broader shift in the landscape of women’s cricket. India’s women’s team has grown into a global powerhouse over the last decade, blending experienced campaigners with exciting young talent. Players such as Shafali Verma have risen through the ranks in both batting and bowling standings, showing the depth of Indian women’s cricket and its capacity to produce world-class performers.
Deepti’s journey to the top of the T20I wicket chart has been shaped by years of disciplined performance. She began her international career in 2016 and quickly established herself as a reliable spinner with a fiery competitive edge. Over 133 WT20I matches, she has maintained an impressive bowling average and economy rate, proving resilient against international opponents from around the world.
Her record is even more remarkable considering the increased competitiveness of women’s T20 cricket, with more teams playing regularly and elevating standards across the format. Deepti’s ability to adapt and thrive in evolving conditions speaks to her technical skill and mental strength.
As Deepti Sharma celebrates this historic milestone, young cricketers in India and across the globe are sure to find inspiration in her achievements. She not only redefined possibility in women’s T20 cricket but also reinforced the importance of perseverance and excellence in sport. With eyes already turning to future tournaments including the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 the cricket world will undoubtedly watch closely as Deepti continues to add chapters to her already extraordinary career.
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