India all-rounder Deepti Sharma revealed that her stunning one-handed six during the first Women’s One-Day International against England in Southampton was inspired by wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant, who is known for his audacious strokeplay.
Deepti launched a length ball from pacer Lauren Bell over deep midwicket for a maximum in the 38th over of India’s successful run-chase. Unbeaten on 62 off 64 balls, Deepti helped India overhaul the 259-run target and assume a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Her knock included three fours and that one stupendous six, which was the only maximum in the entire match.
“I have played these shots (one-handed six) in practice. I got to learn that shot from Rishabh Pant,” Deepti said after she was named the player-of-the-match for her heroics. The left-handed batter allied with Jemimah Rodrigues for a 90-run patnership off just 86 balls after India lost a couple of quick wickets.
