Deepti Sharma Highlights India's Strengths Ahead of Asia Cup Clash with Pakistan

As India prepares for a crucial match against Pakistan in the Women's Asia Cup 2026, all-rounder Deepti Sharma expresses confidence in her team's balanced squad. With a strong start in the tournament, India remains unbeaten, showcasing standout performances from key players. Deepti highlights the strengths of both her team and the formidable Pakistani bowlers, while also praising the emergence of young talents like Sree Charani and Prema Rawat. The match promises to be a thrilling encounter as both teams vie for supremacy.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 4, 2026, 22:24 IST

India's All-Rounder Deepti Sharma Backs Team's Balanced Squad

Deepti Sharma, an all-rounder for India, has expressed confidence in her team's well-rounded squad as they prepare for their significant Women’s Asia Cup 2026 match against Pakistan. The match is scheduled to take place at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium this Saturday.

In her remarks before the match, Deepti emphasized the team's strong performance, noting that both the batting and bowling units are in good shape. She stated, "The entire team is performing well. If you analyze our bowling and batting units, they appear to be well-balanced based on our recent games."

India's Strong Start in the Asia Cup

India has made a remarkable start in the Asia Cup 2026, with several players showcasing exceptional performances. The reigning champions of the 2025 Women’s Cricket World Cup remain undefeated after two matches, achieving convincing victories of 94 runs against Thailand and 137 runs against Hong Kong, China, placing them at the top of Group A. Notably, Smriti Mandhana set multiple records during the match against Hong Kong, China.

Preparing for the Challenge Against Pakistan

Deepti acknowledged the strength of Pakistan's bowling attack, particularly highlighting spinners Nashra Sundhu and Sadia Iqbal, who rank seventh and ninth in the ICC Women's T20I Bowling Rankings. She remarked, "While our team is strong, their bowlers are also formidable. However, we focus on our strengths and aim to play an excellent brand of cricket."

Regarding the historical matchups between India and Pakistan, Deepti noted India's favorable record but emphasized the need to concentrate on their own game. "In past encounters, whether in the Asia Cup or other matches, we have generally had the upper hand. Ultimately, it comes down to how well we can perform as a team against them," she added. India boasts a 14-3 advantage in their head-to-head record against Pakistan in Women’s T20Is.

Spotlight on Emerging Talents

Deepti also praised the rise of young talents within the Indian team, particularly Sree Charani, who is currently the top-ranked bowler in Women’s T20I. "Charani is an exceptional talent. She has excelled over the past year, and her ability to turn the ball is remarkable, making it challenging for batters," she noted.

Having made her debut against England in April 2025, Charani has taken 73 wickets in 48 matches and has been a key player for India, including a strong performance at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup earlier this year.

Additionally, Deepti commended 24-year-old Prema Rawat for her readiness to seize opportunities. She mentioned, "Prema has had limited chances, but she is always prepared to step up when needed. I support her by sharing my experiences both on the field and during practice sessions." Rawat debuted against South Africa during the Women’s T20 World Cup after impressing in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) and has taken two wickets in three matches for India.