DEEPTI SHARMA DWARKA’S PRIDE, WHO MADE INDIA WORLD CHAMPION

Dwarka City News

Dwarka is glowing with pride and admiration! From the narrow by lanes of Agra to the wide, green grounds of Sector-6 and now to the grandest stage of world cricket, Deepti Sharma’s journey is one of resilience, brilliance and inspiration. The resident of Katyayani Apartments, Dwarka has become a symbol of dedication and excellence, bringing immense pride to the entire sub-city. Her match-winning all-round performance at the 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup helped India lift its maiden title, etching a golden chapter in the nation’s cricketing history. For Dwarka’s residents, this victory feels deeply personal, a moment where one of their own made the nation proud. Born in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, Deepti’s love for cricket began at an early age. As a child, she often played with her elder brother, Sumit Sharma, who later became her mentor and first coach. Recognizing her exceptional raw talent, Sumit introduced her to formal cricket training. Those early years were full of challenges from long practice sessions under the scorching sun to frequent train journeys for local tournaments. Yet, nothing could dampen Deepti’s determination. Her parents supported her wholeheartedly, ensuring she never gave up on her dreams despite the odds.

Deepti’s career took flight in 2014, when she made her international debut for India at the tender age of just 17. As a left-handed batter and right-arm off-break bowler, she brought a rare and valuable balance to the Indian team. Her calm demeanor, strong technique and ability to adapt quickly earned her a permanent place in the side. Over the years, she evolved into one of India’s most dependable all-rounders - someone who could anchor the innings when the chips were down and deliver crucial breakthroughs with the ball when her team needed it most. The 2025 Women’s Cricket World Cup marked the defining moment of her career. Having come close in 2017 and 2022, India entered the tournament with a hunger for redemption. Deepti Sharma rose magnificently to the occasion. She became the first cricketer - male or female - to record 200+ runs and 20+ wickets in a single World Cup edition. Across nine matches, she scored 215 runs at an average of 30.71 and a strike rate of 90.71, including three crucial half-centuries. With the ball, she was even more lethal, finishing as the tournament’s highest wicket-taker with 22 wickets at an average of 24.11, including a best of 5/39 in the final. In the final against South Africa, Deepti’s composed innings of 58 steadied India after early setbacks. Later, her devastating spell with the ball dismantled the Proteas batting lineup, securing a memorable 52-run victory for India at the DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai. Her performance earned her the Player of the Match and Player of the Tournament titles, sealing her place in history as one of India’s greatest match-winners. With this, Deepti also became the first Indian woman to claim a five-wicket haul in a World Cup final, breaking long-standing records held by legends like Shubhangi Kulkarni and Neetu David. Deepti’s success is not limited to this tournament alone. Over the years, her consistent excellence has earned her numerous accolades. She was conferred with the Arjuna Award in 2020 for her outstanding contributions to Indian cricket. Her all-round brilliance has placed her multiple times in the ICC Women’s Team of the Year, acknowledging her as one of the best in world cricket. In the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2024, she created history by becoming the first Indian woman to claim a hat-trick, highlighting her unmatched versatility and match-winning ability. Her continued presence in the top five ICC all-rounder rankings reaffirms her stature as a true cricketing giant. Beyond her individual achievements, Deepti Sharma’s story resonates deeply with young girls across India. In a world where women athletes often struggle for recognition and equal opportunities, her journey stands as a beacon of hope - proving that with dedication, perseverance and self-belief, no dream is out of reach. Back home in Katyayani Apartments, Sector-6, Dwarka, the atmosphere has been electric. Residents have been celebrating her triumph with patriotic fervour, decorating their society with banners and lights. The society proudly displays messages like “From Katyayani Apartments to World Champion – Our Deepti Sharma, Our Pride!”

The residents’ grand welcome to Deepti Sharma:

The residents of Katyayani Apartments, extended a heroic and emotional welcome to World Cup champion Deepti Sharma upon her return home. The courtyard of the society was filled with the echoes of patriotic chants, applause and joyous songs. The entire community gathered to celebrate the  triumph of their very own cricket icon. From children waving the tri colour to elders showering her with petals, the atmosphere was electric. Parul Singh, who is also the daughter-in-law of former Katyayani Society President J. B. Singh said that Deepti’s homecoming symbolizes a moment of national pride and serves as living proof that true greatness is earned through dedication, humility and unwavering perseverance.

“Deepti Sharma’s incredible journey from the bylanes of Agra to becoming a World Cup Champion has brought boundless pride and inspiration to every resident of Dwarka. Her dedication, discipline, and unmatched perseverance embody the true spirit of Indian sportsmanship. Deepti has proved that with hard work and determination, no dream is too distant. Her performance in the 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup was nothing short of legendary, showcasing not just her talent but also her composure under pressure. As a resident of Katyayani Apartments, she has put Dwarka firmly on the global sporting map, inspiring countless young girls to chase their dreams fearlessly. Deepti’s achievement is not just India’s victory—it is a celebration of women’s empowerment, resilience, and excellence. Dwarka City proudly salutes her spirit, her achievements, and the golden glory she has brought to our sub-city and the entire nation.”

Ms. Sudha Sinha, Editor, Dwarka City

“Deepti Sharma’s remarkable achievement has filled the entire Dwarka community with immense pride. As a neighbour from Shivlok Apartments, I have seen the admiration and inspiration her success has generated, especially among the youth. Her journey from humble beginnings to becoming a world champion is a true testament to perseverance, hard work, and unwavering focus. Deepti has not only brought glory to Indian cricket but has also become a beacon of hope for aspiring sportspersons in our locality. Her dedication reflects the power of dreams backed by discipline. We, the residents of Shivlok Apartments, join Katyayani Apartments and all of Dwarka in celebrating this golden moment that has made our entire sub-city proud.”

S. Balasrinivasan, Former President, Shivlok Apartments

“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Deepti Sharma for her outstanding performance and for bringing immense pride to our nation and the people of Dwarka. Her journey from a passionate young cricketer to a World Cup Champion is truly inspiring for youth across the country and beyond. Deepti’s determination, consistency, and humility make her a role model for every aspiring sportsperson. She has proved that with focus and relentless effort, even the highest goals can be achieved. Watching her lift the World Cup trophy was an emotional and proud moment for all of us. On behalf of the proud residents of Dwarka, I salute her dedication and wish her continued success, good health and many more glorious milestones in the years ahead.”

P. K. Chopra, Resident

“Deepti’s achievement is not just a personal milestone - it is a victory for every Indian, who believes in hard work, resilience and national pride. Her success embodies the spirit of the nation, where commitment and discipline always triumph over privilege and comfort. She has shown that champions are not born but made through years of sacrifice, grit and belief. Deepti’s journey is a reflection of what India’s daughters are capable of when given the right opportunity and encouragement. Today, her success belongs to every girl who dares to dream and every parent who supports that dream.”

Ms. Parul Singh

“Katyayani Society is proud to call Deepti one of our own. She has proven that determination and discipline can break every barrier and make the impossible possible. Her story is a shining example of how persistence and passion pave the road to success. From a young girl with big dreams to the face of Indian cricket’s greatest triumph, Deepti has become an inspiration for millions. She reminds us that dreams do come true when you believe in yourself, even in the face of adversity. Her success fills our hearts with pride and motivates every young girl in our society to reach higher and believe that no goal is out of reach.”

Ms. Neelam Paul

“We are all overjoyed, especially the children, who see Deepti as their biggest role model. Her homecoming has turned into a festival of pride and patriotism in our society. Watching her rise from our own neighbourhood to the world stage has been nothing short of magical. She represents courage, confidence and dedication - the very traits that define India’s young women today. Deepti’s journey shows that with determination and hard work, nothing is impossible. Her success story has ignited a spark among our youth, encouraging them to pursue excellence in every field. She has brought honour not only to our society but to the entire nation.”

Mrs. Poonam Batish

“Deepti Sharma is the pride of our community and a true daughter of India. Her humility, hard work and relentless passion make her a role model for generations to come. Even after achieving global success, she remains deeply connected to her roots, which is truly admirable. Her World Cup victory has not only brought immense pride to Katyayani Apartments but also lifted the spirits of every Indian. Deepti’s story is one of courage, perseverance and patriotism - values that inspire everyone who knows her. She has shown that success doesn’t depend on circumstances but on conviction and effort. For us, she is not just a champion on the field but also a champion of values and dreams.”

K.K.S. Deori