India spinner Vaishnavi Sharma has described playing under Harmanpreet Kaur and Smriti Mandhana as equally special experiences after delivering an impressive performance in the ODI series against Zimbabwe.
The 20-year-old claimed nine wickets across the final two matches, helping India complete a 3-0 series sweep. She returned figures of 4/39 in 10 overs in the second ODI before recording her maiden five-wicket haul with 5/39 in the third.
Speaking after the series, Vaishnavi reflected on her development, the work she undertook after missing the World Cup and the experience of representing India under two different captains.
Vaishnavi Sharma Credits Hard Work for Successful Comeback
Vaishnavi used her time away from international cricket to improve several aspects of her game. After missing out on the World Cup, the young spinner focused on strengthening herself mentally and physically while addressing areas that required improvement in her bowling, batting and fielding.
“I got a good gap in which I was able to work on myself,” Vaishnavi explained at the post-match press conference. “I was able to work on my mental strength and physical strength. I understood what the requirements are in the game regarding fielding and batting, and which areas should be covered in bowling. I feel like my game has developed a lot.”
Her efforts produced immediate results against Zimbabwe, where she emerged as one of India’s leading wicket-takers in the closing stages of the series.
However, Vaishnavi emphasised that her approach was built around executing bowling plans rather than concentrating exclusively on dismissals.
“My mindset was that we have to execute the plan that we have made,” said Vaishnavi. “First, let’s focus on the dots of the plan. If the wickets are coming according to that, then it’s great. Rest, I just wanted to enjoy myself at the time and stay in the present.”
How Vaishnavi Improved Her Bowling Control and Consistency
A major part of Vaishnavi’s preparation involved improving her ability to maintain control and respond to batters’ movements. She worked on recognising batting patterns, understanding how opponents approached spin bowling and adjusting her deliveries according to match situations.
Remaining calm under pressure was another important area of development.
“I improved staying calm and following the batter till the end,” she explained. “As a spinner, we believe that we can follow the batter. I worked on this and on normal repetitions.”
The spinner also concentrated on refining her stock delivery through repeated bowling drills. Her objective was to consistently land the ball in the same area while improving control over its flight and trajectory.
“I have tried to bring more control on the ball with the repetition as well,” she said. “The more I did single wickets, the more control and consistency I had on the ball, so that I can hit the ball continuously in one place.”
Those improvements helped her maintain pressure on Zimbabwe’s batters and contributed to her nine-wicket return across the final two ODIs.
‘Both Captainships Are Special’: Vaishnavi on Harmanpreet and Smriti
Vaishnavi also reflected on the significance of playing under Harmanpreet Kaur and Smriti Mandhana at different stages of her international career. She made her India debut while Harmanpreet was captain, an occasion she continues to regard as an important milestone.
Her maiden five-wicket haul came under Mandhana’s leadership, giving her another memorable achievement.
“I am enjoying both the captainships,” said Vaishnavi. “When I played for Harman, I made my debut for the India team. That was a special moment for me. Now I am taking five wickets under Smriti. That is also a special moment for me.”
Rather than comparing the two captains, Vaishnavi expressed appreciation for the opportunities and experiences associated with both.
Vaishnavi Sharma Focused on Learning After Zimbabwe Series
India’s 3-0 ODI series victory provided an encouraging conclusion to Vaishnavi’s return to the international side. Her performances in the second and third matches demonstrated the progress she had made during her time away from the team.
Despite her success, the spinner remains focused on developing her skills and maintaining a positive approach.
“There is still a lot to learn and I am in learning mode,” she said. “Stay in the present as much as possible and enjoy. Because when you enjoy the game, the performance comes out on its own.”
For Vaishnavi, the series represented another step in her international career, with her improved control, consistency and confidence providing a foundation for further progress.
