In a moment of pure sporting history, **Deepti Sharma** has officially become the **highest wicket-taker in women’s T20Is**, claiming her 152nd wicket to overtake Australia’s Megan Schutt during India’s dominant 5–0 series sweep against Sri Lanka .
But that’s not all. In doing so, Sharma also cemented her place as the first cricketer in the world—male or female—to score 1,000 runs and take 150 wickets in T20 Internationals . This isn’t just a milestone; it’s a redefinition of all-round excellence in the fastest format of the game.
Table of Contents
- Deepti Sharma Makes History: A Dual Record Breaker
- Highest Wicket-Taker in Women’s T20Is: Breaking Down the Record
- The 1,000 Runs & 150 Wickets Club: A Global First
- India’s 5-0 Whitewash: The Stage for Greatness
- What This Means for Women’s Cricket in India and Beyond
- Conclusion: A Legacy Forged in Fire
- Sources
Deepti Sharma Makes History: A Dual Record Breaker
From the dusty pitches of Uttar Pradesh to the international spotlight, Deepti Sharma’s journey has always been defined by quiet determination. Known for her deceptive left-arm spin, pinpoint accuracy, and calm under pressure, Sharma has been a backbone of India’s bowling attack since her 2014 debut .
Her record-breaking wicket came in classic Sharma fashion: no fanfare, no drama—just a perfectly flighted delivery that trapped a Sri Lankan batter plumb in front. In that instant, she surpassed Megan Schutt’s 151-wicket mark and etched her name into the ICC record books as the new highest wicket-taker in women’s T20Is .
Highest Wicket-Taker in Women’s T20Is: Breaking Down the Record
Women’s T20I cricket has seen fierce bowlers, but none with the longevity and consistency of Sharma. Reaching 152 wickets in just 143 matches—a strike rate of 17.2 and an economy of 6.27—speaks volumes about her control and adaptability across conditions .
Here’s how the top five stack up as of December 2025:
| Rank | Player | Country | Wickets | Matches |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Deepti Sharma | India | 152 | 143 |
| 2 | Megan Schutt | Australia | 151 | 139 |
| 3 | Anisa Mohammed | West Indies | 123 | 140 |
| 4 | Shabnim Ismail | South Africa | 120 | 127 |
| 5 | Ellyse Perry | Australia | 117 | 142 |
This achievement isn’t just about numbers—it’s about impact. Sharma has delivered in World Cups, bilateral series, and high-pressure chases, often breaking crucial partnerships when India needed it most.
The 1,000 Runs & 150 Wickets Club: A Global First
Even more astonishing than her bowling record is Sharma’s all-round mastery. With over **1,000 runs** (at a strike rate of 115+) and **150+ wickets**, she is the first player in T20I history—across genders—to hit both marks .
Compare that to other legendary all-rounders:
- Shakib Al Hasan (Men’s): 3,000+ runs but only 140 T20I wickets.
- Ellyse Perry (Women’s): 2,500+ runs but 117 wickets.
- Mohammad Nabi (Men’s): 140+ wickets but under 1,000 runs.
Sharma stands alone. Her ability to anchor innings or finish with the bat, then dismantle top orders with her spin, makes her one of the most valuable assets in modern T20 cricket.
India’s 5-0 Whitewash: The Stage for Greatness
The record was sealed during a series that showcased India’s complete dominance. The 5–0 sweep over Sri Lanka wasn’t just clinical—it was a statement of intent ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup .
Sharma led from the front, consistently picking up 2–3 wickets per game while contributing handy runs down the order. Her leadership in the absence of Harmanpreet Kaur (rested) highlighted her growing role as a senior figure in the squad—a quiet captain-in-waiting .
What This Means for Women’s Cricket in India and Beyond
Sharma’s milestone is a cultural moment. In a country where women’s sports have long fought for visibility, her record-breaking performance is a powerful symbol of progress. Young girls in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities now have a tangible hero—not just a batter like Smriti Mandhana or a finisher like Harmanpreet, but a bowler who can win matches single-handedly .
Moreover, her success validates the BCCI’s investment in the Women’s Premier League (WPL), where Sharma’s performances for UP Warriorz have drawn massive crowds. The league has become a launchpad for talent—and Sharma is its most consistent star .
For more on global T20I stats, the ICC’s official rankings offer real-time insights into player performance .
Conclusion: A Legacy Forged in Fire
Deepti Sharma’s ascent to become the highest wicket-taker in women’s T20Is is more than a personal triumph—it’s a landmark for Indian and global cricket. By achieving the unprecedented 1,000-run, 150-wicket double, she has redefined what an all-rounder can be in the T20 era. As India builds toward future ICC tournaments, they do so with their greatest match-winner leading the charge. The world isn’t just watching—it’s in awe.
Sources
- Times of India: World record: Deepti Sharma becomes highest wicket-taker in women’s T20Is
- ICC Cricket: ICC Women’s T20I Player Rankings
- ESPNcricinfo: Deepti Sharma Player Profile
- BCCI: Board of Control for Cricket in India