In a moment that will echo through cricket history, **Deepti Sharma** has officially become the **highest wicket-taker in women’s T20Is**, claiming her 152nd international scalp to overtake Australia’s Megan Schutt. This isn’t just another stat—it’s a historic milestone that crowns Sharma as the most prolific bowler in the shortest format of the women’s game .
The record-breaking wicket came during India’s dominant 5–0 clean sweep against Sri Lanka, a series that also showcased Sharma’s rare dual mastery: she’s now the **first cricketer—male or female—to score 1,000 runs *and* take 150 wickets in T20 Internationals** . This isn’t just dominance; it’s all-round excellence on a global stage.
Born in Uttar Pradesh and rising through India’s domestic circuit, Deepti Sharma has long been admired for her crafty left-arm spin, deceptive variations, and ice-cool temperament under pressure. But her journey to the top of the T20I bowling charts is about more than just skill—it’s about consistency, resilience, and longevity in a high-stakes arena .
Since her international debut in 2014, Sharma has evolved from a promising youngster into the backbone of India’s bowling attack across formats. Her economy rate, death-over control, and ability to break partnerships have made her a nightmare for batters worldwide—and now, the undisputed queen of women’s T20I wickets.
Before Sharma’s historic feat, Australia’s Megan Schutt held the record with 151 wickets—a testament to her own brilliance. But on a sun-drenched pitch during the final T20I against Sri Lanka , Sharma clean-bowled a batter to claim her 152nd wicket, writing her name atop the ICC’s official list .
Here’s a snapshot of the top 5 wicket-takers in women’s T20Is as of December 2025:
| Rank | Player | Country | Wickets |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Deepti Sharma | India | 152 |
| 2 | Megan Schutt | Australia | 151 |
| 3 | Anisa Mohammed | West Indies | 123 |
| 4 | Shabnim Ismail | South Africa | 120 |
| 5 | Ellyse Perry | Australia | 117 |
This achievement places Sharma not just ahead of her contemporaries, but in a league of her own—a symbol of India’s growing prowess in women’s cricket. For real-time updates on global rankings, the ICC’s official player rankings are the gold standard .
What makes Sharma’s record even more remarkable is her dual-threat status. She’s the **first player in T20I history—across both men’s and women’s cricket—to reach 1,000 runs and 150 wickets** . This places her in an elite category that highlights true all-round greatness.
In contrast, legendary all-rounders like Shakib Al Hasan (men’s) and Ellyse Perry (women’s) have come close—but none have crossed both thresholds in T20Is. Sharma’s ability to change a game with bat or ball makes her indispensable to Team India and a nightmare for opposition captains .
The historic wicket came during a series where India’s women showed complete dominance. The 5–0 whitewash of Sri Lanka wasn’t just about winning—it was a statement of intent ahead of major ICC events .
Sharma wasn’t the only star: Smriti Mandhana’s explosive batting, Richa Ghosh’s finishing prowess, and Renuka Singh’s fiery spells all contributed. But it was Sharma’s leadership with the ball—capturing key wickets at crucial junctures—that underlined her value and set the stage for her record-breaking moment .
Sharma’s milestone is more than personal glory—it’s a catalyst for the sport’s growth in India and globally. Young girls watching her celebrate on TV now see a tangible path to greatness. Her success validates the BCCI’s increased investment in women’s cricket, including domestic leagues and international exposure .
As the game evolves, dual-skilled players like Sharma will become even more valuable in T20 leagues like the [INTERNAL_LINK:WPL] and global tournaments. Her record could inspire a new generation of all-rounders who refuse to be boxed into one role.
Deepti Sharma’s ascent to become the **highest wicket-taker in women’s T20Is** is a triumph of skill, consistency, and quiet determination. By joining the ultra-exclusive 1,000-run, 150-wicket club, she hasn’t just broken records—she’s redefined what’s possible in women’s cricket. As Team India looks ahead to the World Cup and beyond, they do so with their greatest match-winner leading the charge. The cricketing world isn’t just watching—**it’s celebrating**.
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