India’s women’s cricket team could receive a timely boost ahead of the third T20I against Sri Lanka, with star all-rounder Deepti Sharma set to return to action as the hosts look to seal the series in Thiruvananthapuram.
Head coach Amol Muzumdar has also provided a cautious update on the fitness of key batter Jemimah Rodrigues, who will be assessed right up until the toss.
India currently hold a commanding 2-0 lead in the five-match T20I series after dominant victories in Visakhapatnam. With momentum firmly on their side, the return of Deepti could further strengthen an already well-balanced Indian unit.
Deepti Sharma likely to be available for third T20I
Deepti Sharma missed the second T20I due to a bout of fever, but Muzumdar confirmed that the all-rounder is expected to be fit for the crucial third encounter.
The timing could not be better for India, as Deepti recently rose to the No.1 spot in the ICC Women’s T20I bowling rankings, underlining her importance to the side.
Her ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes her a vital cog in India’s plans, especially as the team looks to fine-tune combinations ahead of major global tournaments.
Jemimah Rodrigues faces late fitness test
While Deepti’s return looks likely, India remain cautious with Jemimah Rodrigues. The stylish right-hander will be given maximum time to prove her fitness, with a final call to be taken just before the toss.
Muzumdar stressed that player welfare remains a priority as India balance immediate results with long-term goals, particularly with the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup on the horizon.
Rotation policy continues as World Cup planning intensifies
Despite being on the brink of a series win, India are expected to continue rotating their squad. According to Muzumdar, experimentation is a key part of the team’s preparation for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in England and Wales next year.
After clinching their maiden ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup title earlier this year, India are now firmly targeting a first-ever Women’s T20 World Cup crown.
“We tried to be as settled as possible during the ODI World Cup as well. Six months down the line there is a T20 World Cup and we are very well aware of certain things, what we need to do and in what direction we want to take this T20 side,” Muzumdar said.
The coach highlighted that the focus is not limited to skills alone, with fitness now being treated as a crucial fourth pillar alongside batting, bowling, and fielding.
“We are a progressive side, constantly we are trying to improve day by day,” he added.
India aim to wrap up series in Thiruvananthapuram
With three matches scheduled at the Greenfield Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram, India have a golden opportunity to close out the series early and test their bench strength in the remaining games. Sri Lanka, meanwhile, will be desperate to stay alive in the contest and avoid a clean sweep.
India vs Sri Lanka Women’s T20I series schedule
- First T20I: December 21, Visakhapatnam – India won by 8 wickets
- Second T20I: December 23, Visakhapatnam – India won by 7 wickets
- Third T20I: December 26, Thiruvananthapuram
- Fourth T20I: December 28, Thiruvananthapuram
- Fifth T20I: December 30, Thiruvananthapuram
As India eye another statement performance, all eyes will be on Deepti Sharma’s return and Jemimah Rodrigues’ fitness, with the series—and valuable World Cup preparations—very much on the line.
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