Deepti Sharma Brushes Aside Fielding Concerns As India Gear Up For Asia Cup Final

India may have marched into the Asia Cup final unbeaten, but their fielding remains an area of concern. Veteran all-rounder Deepti Sharma, however, believes the team has worked hard on the problem and is ready to put its best foot forward when the title is decided.

India endured another difficult outing in the field during their 40-run semifinal victory over Bangladesh, dropping four catches and allowing several opportunities to slip away. Pratika Rawal put down two chances, including one in the opening over of the chase, while Smriti Mandhana misjudged a boundary catch. Richa Ghosh and Nandani Sharma also collided while attempting a catch near square leg.

Despite the lapses, Deepti insisted that dropped catches are part of cricket and said the team remains confident in all three departments.

“We have been doing good work in fielding during training. We practise taking a number of catches and also work on our fielding,” Deepti said after the semifinal.

“It can happen on a day here or a day there. But as a team, we are always up for the finals in all three departments,” she added.

India will meet either Pakistan or defending champions Sri Lanka in the final. Deepti said the team would assess the second semifinal before finalising its strategy, while stressing that India would not underestimate whoever reaches the summit clash.

“Our team doesn't take any team lightly. Whoever comes in the final, we always think about how we can do better in each and every game,” she said.

Deepti herself played another important role in India's campaign. After scoring a quick 13 off six balls, she returned with the ball to claim 3/26, underlining her value as an all-rounder.

She said getting opportunities with the bat also boosts her confidence and added that her focus remains on contributing wherever the team needs her.

With the final now in sight, India have little doubt about their batting and bowling strength. The challenge will be to ensure that their fielding matches that standard when the pressure is at its highest.