The stage is set for a historic finale as the Indian women's cricket team prepares to lock horns with Sri Lanka in the third and final T20 International on Sunday, December 29. Riding high on an unassailable 2-0 lead, the Harmanpreet Kaur-led side is not just eyeing a series clean sweep but also a potential world record for their star all-rounder, Deepti Sharma.
Deepti Sharma on the Cusp of History
All eyes will be on the versatile Deepti Sharma as she stands on the brink of a monumental achievement in T20 International cricket. The 27-year-old needs just one more wicket to become the first Indian woman, and only the second player ever globally, to complete the incredible double of 100 wickets and 1000 runs in Women's T20Is. This elite milestone is currently the sole property of West Indies legend Anisa Mohammed.
Deepti's consistent all-round performances have been a cornerstone of India's success. As of now, her tally stands at an impressive 99 wickets and 1012 runs in 108 T20I matches. Achieving this feat would cement her status as one of the format's genuine greats and a priceless asset for the Indian team.
India's Dominance and Series Context
The Indian team has displayed commanding form throughout the series, outplaying Sri Lanka comprehensively. The first match saw a convincing victory, and the second game was no different, with India securing a win by 5 wickets with 11 balls to spare. This dominant performance has given them the confidence to push for a perfect 3-0 outcome in the final encounter.
Captain Harmanpreet Kaur will be pleased with the team's balanced effort. While the bowling attack, potentially featuring record-chaser Deepti, has been effective in restricting the opponents, the batting unit has chased down targets with calculated aggression. The final match presents an opportunity to experiment with combinations while maintaining the winning momentum ahead of future challenges.
What to Expect in the Final Clash
The third T20I is more than just a dead rubber; it's a quest for perfection for India and a battle for pride for Sri Lanka. For the hosts, the objectives are clear:
- Secure a resounding series clean sweep to boost team morale and ranking points.
- Provide game time to bench strength and test team depth.
- Most notably, create the perfect scenario for Deepti Sharma to etch her name in the record books.
Sri Lanka, on the other hand, will be desperate to avoid a whitewash on home soil. They will look to their key players to put up a spirited fight and salvage a win, which would provide a much-needed positive end to the series.
The match promises high stakes and emotional moments, especially if Deepti Sharma gets the crucial wicket she needs. Her achievement would be a landmark moment for Indian women's cricket, inspiring a new generation of all-rounders. As the teams gear up for the Sunday showdown, fans worldwide will be watching to see if history is made alongside a series sweep for the visiting Indian side.
