“Wanted Agra ki beti to lead,” a disappointed fan wrote on social media when the UP Warriorz announced Australian opener Alyssa Healy as their new captain ahead of the home girl Deepti Sharma. But days later the franchise has now named the Indian all-rounder a part of the leadership group as the vice-captain of the side.
India’s highest wicket-taker in the T20 Internationals, Deepti was a hot property in the auction and was finally bought by the UP Warriorz in 2.6 crores, making her one of the most expensive players of the inaugural Women’s Premier League 2023.
“Inspiration for the young women athletes in UP”
Rajesh Sharma, Managing Director of Capri Global Holdings Private Limited on Saturday released the statement.
“Deepti Sharma is one of the most talented Indian cricketers and we are confident that her leadership qualities will shine through and she will be able to have a big impact. The whole state of Uttar Pradesh is going to be watching their favorite daughter, and we are keen to see her succeed in her new role as vice-captain of the UP Warriorz.” he said.
Expressing her delight about playing for her home team, the new vice-captain Sharma said
“As someone from Uttar Pradesh, I am not only extremely happy to be part of the UP Warriorz team but also delighted to be named the vice-captain for the team. Along with captain Alyssa Healy, and the other senior players, we hope we can make the team function well and play some fantastic cricket. We hope our performances in the WPL can become a source of inspiration for the young women athletes in UP and we are keenly awaiting the start of the tournament.” said Deepti Sharma.
A wealth of experience
Hailing from Agra, Deepti is one of the few Indian players who have experience playing in the T20 leagues all around the world. A senior member of the Indian team, she has been a part of the Western Storm (Super League), Sydney Thunder (WBBL), Birmingham Phoenix, and London Spirit The Hundred) in her stints in franchise cricket outside of India as well as the Trailblazers and Velocity in the Women’s T20 Challenge.
A fantastic spinner, a steady batter, and a stout fielder, the 25-year-old 3D package is no new to the captaincy role, having led Velocity to the finals of the Women’s T20 Challenge in the previous season.