London Spirit, the reigning champions of The Hundred, will embark on their 2025 campaign without the services of their title-clinching hero, Deepti Sharma. The Indian all-rounder, whose straight six secured Spirit’s maiden Hundred title at Lord’s last year, has withdrawn from the upcoming season to manage her considerable workload, a decision that has sent ripples through the franchise and the tournament at large.
London Spirit acknowledges Deepti Sharma’s decision
Deepti, currently in England with the Indian team for their ongoing white-ball tour, has maintained a demanding schedule that seamlessly blends international duties with various franchise leagues across the globe. With the 50-over World Cup slated to take place in India later this year, the all-rounder has made the strategic decision to prioritize rest and recovery, foregoing her contract with London Spirit. This move underscores the increasing focus on player well-being and longevity in the demanding modern cricketing landscape.
London Spirit acknowledged Deepti’s immense contribution in a statement released on Tuesday (July 8), expressing their gratitude and admiration. “Deepti will always have a special place in Spirit history, having produced the team’s most iconic moment when she struck the ball over long-on for six to secure our first The Hundred title last summer,” the franchise stated. “She starred with bat and ball throughout the tournament, and was the highest-ranked Spirit player in the MVP standings – we hope to be able to welcome her back to Lord’s in future years.” This sentiment highlights the significant impact Deepti had not only in the final but throughout the entire tournament, where her all-round prowess was a cornerstone of Spirit’s success.
Deepti’s decision also means that, for the first time in The Hundred’s relatively short history, there will be no Indian players under contract in the tournament this year.
Also READ: The Hundred Women’s 2025 – Full squads of all 8 teams after the players draft ft. Nat Sciver-Brunt and Sophie Ecclestone
Deepti’s replacement for The Hundred 2025
Deepti’s withdrawal necessitates a significant re-shaping of the London Spirit squad for the 2025 season. Australian all-rounder Charli Knott has been named as her replacement, bringing her own set of skills and experience to the team. Beyond this key change, the Spirit lineup will feature several other prominent alterations. With regular captain Heather Knight sidelined due to injury, Charlie Dean will step up to deputize as skipper, a testament to her growing leadership capabilities.
In another major change, Australian batting stalwart Meg Lanning has been replaced by the explosive Grace Harris, promising a different dynamic at the top of the order. Furthermore, the coaching staff has also seen a change, with Chris Liddle taking over as head coach from Ashley Noffke. These collective changes indicate a new era for London Spirit as they look to defend their title with a refreshed squad and leadership.
Also READ: Heather Knight to miss the remainder of international summer and The Hundred 2025
This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.
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