India's all-rounder Deepti Sharma credited her self-belief after playing a crucial role in the team's 14-run victory over South Africa in the fourth women's T20I at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Tuesday. The win kept the five-match series alive, with South Africa still leading 2-1.
Match Summary
Batting first, India posted a competitive total of 173 for 4 in their 20 overs, thanks to a solid 72-run partnership for the third wicket between Deepti Sharma (43 off 32 balls) and captain Harmanpreet Kaur (46 off 32 balls). Smriti Mandhana also contributed with a brisk 37 off 26 balls. For South Africa, Nonkululeko Mlaba was the pick of the bowlers with 2 for 32.
In response, South Africa got off to a flying start with openers Tazmin Brits (38 off 24) and Laura Wolvaardt (31 off 20) adding 65 runs in just 6.5 overs. However, Deepti Sharma turned the game around with her off-spin, claiming three wickets for 22 runs in her four overs, including the crucial scalps of Brits, Marizanne Kapp (6), and Sune Luus (4). South Africa eventually finished at 159 for 6, falling short by 14 runs.
Deepti's Reflections
After the match, Deepti said, "I keep believing in myself. I always try to give my best for the team. The wicket was good for batting, but I knew if I bowled in the right areas, I could get wickets. I am happy that I could contribute with both bat and ball." She also praised the team's effort, saying, "We knew we had to win this match to stay in the series. The team showed great character and we are looking forward to the next game."
Other Performances
For India, Pooja Vastrakar also bowled well, taking 2 for 33, while Radha Yadav chipped in with a wicket. In the batting department, Richa Ghosh remained unbeaten on 15 off 10 balls to provide a late flourish. For South Africa, Marizanne Kapp was the top scorer with 35 off 29 balls, but her efforts went in vain as the required rate climbed beyond their reach.
Series Status
The fifth and final T20I will be played at the same venue on Thursday. India need to win to level the series, while South Africa will look to seal the series with a victory.
