Ace Indian all-rounder Deepti Sharma received a hero’s welcome during a grand roadshow as she returned to her hometown, Agra, fresh off being named Player of the Tournament in India’s victorious ICC Women’s ODI World Cup campaign.
The city turned out in full strength as fans lined the streets to celebrate one of India’s finest cricketers.
Deepti was also felicitated for her outstanding achievements — a moment that inspired thousands of young girls in Agra to pursue their cricketing dreams. The vibrant procession, filled with cheers and colour, showcased Agra’s pride in its sporting icon and her role in India’s rise on the global stage of women’s cricket.
Speaking at the event, Deepti said, “Coming back to Agra feels like coming back to the people who shaped my journey. This honour belongs to the city as much as it belongs to me. The love and energy here push me to keep raising the bar for India.”
Offering advice to young aspirants, she added, “I have only one advice for all the youngsters who are here or able to watch this or listen to me: keep working hard without having any doubts, as that is the only way to succeed.”
Later, in a social media post, Deepti thanked the people of Agra for the grand reception. “This welcome… It’s more than a moment — it’s a feeling I’ll carry forever. Grateful for everyone back home whose love continues to inspire me. THANK YOU AGRA,” she wrote on Instagram.
All-rounder Deepti Sharma delivered a performance reminiscent of Yuvraj Singh’s iconic 2011 Men’s ODI World Cup campaign. The seasoned off-spinner topped the wicket charts with 22 scalps, becoming the tournament’s most successful bowler. She also scored 215 runs, including three half-centuries, earning her the MVP title.
On her day of triumph, Deepti dedicated the Player of the Tournament trophy to her parents and said winning India’s maiden Women’s ODI World Cup title felt like a dream. “Honestly, this feels like a dream because we have not been able to come out of that emotion. Feeling really nice that I could contribute this way in a World Cup final,” said Deepti, who scored a fighting 58 and claimed 5–39 in the final.
— IANS