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Deepti Sharma Withdraws from The Hundred 2025 Due to Workload Concerns
India All-Rounder Prioritizes Fitness Ahead of Home ODI World Cup
In a significant development ahead of the 2025 edition of The Hundred, Indian women’s cricket team all-rounder Deepti Sharma has opted out of the tournament, citing workload management. The decision comes as part of a broader strategy to remain fit and ready for a hectic international season culminating in the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025, which India will host between September and November.
Deepti’s withdrawal comes despite her pivotal role in London Spirit’s maiden title win in the 2024 season, where she played a match-winning knock in the final. Her spot in the squad will now be filled by young Australian all-rounder Charli Knott, who brings with her valuable experience from domestic and international leagues.
Spirit Lose a Star Performer Ahead of New Season
Deepti Sharma’s Impact in The Hundred 2024
During the previous season, Deepti Sharma emerged as one of the standout performers for London Spirit, delivering consistent performances with both bat and ball. Her iconic six over long-on in the final not only clinched the title for Spirit but also etched her name in the franchise’s history.
“Deepti will always have a special place in Spirit history, having produced the team’s most iconic moment… She starred with bat and ball throughout the tournament,” said a statement from the franchise.
Deepti’s absence will undoubtedly leave a gap in the Spirit lineup, especially considering she was the highest-ranked player from the team in the MVP standings of The Hundred 2024.
Strategic Move Ahead of India’s Packed Cricket Calendar
Preparations for the Home World Cup Underway
Currently on tour in England for the ongoing white-ball series, Deepti has opted to manage her workload strategically, keeping in mind the upcoming commitments of the Indian women’s team. Before the World Cup, India is scheduled to host Australia—the reigning ODI champions—for a three-match preparatory series in early September.
This decision aligns with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)‘s focus on player fitness and performance optimization leading into major ICC tournaments.
Related: Read about India’s Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 squad updates
Charli Knott Steps In as Replacement
A Rising Australian Talent Joins London Spirit
Replacing Deepti Sharma is Charli Knott, a 22-year-old Australian cricketer with solid experience in domestic T20 leagues. Having played 59 matches for Brisbane Heat in the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) and previously representing Southern Brave in The Hundred, Knott is no stranger to the format or English conditions.
“I can’t wait to take the field with the London Spirit this year. Playing at Lord’s and facing some of the best in the world is a great opportunity,” said Knott.
She will now join Grace Harris and Georgia Redmayne, making her the third Australian in the Spirit’s 2025 squad. The franchise is banking on her all-round ability to fill the vacuum left by Deepti’s departure.
Learn more about Charli Knott’s career on ESPNcricinfo
The Bigger Picture: Managing Player Workload in Modern Cricket
A Growing Trend in Women’s Cricket
Deepti Sharma’s move is not an isolated one. With more cricket being played year-round, players and boards are increasingly prioritizing load management and injury prevention. The decision reflects a larger trend across international cricket where franchises and national teams must collaborate to ensure long-term player availability and performance.
India’s ambitions for a strong showing on home soil in the ODI World Cup have put players like Deepti in the spotlight, with every step being carefully planned leading up to the marquee tournament.
While Deepti Sharma’s absence from The Hundred 2025 may be a setback for London Spirit, it underscores the increasing importance of workload management in modern-day cricket. Her replacement, Charli Knott, brings youthful energy and international experience, potentially setting the stage for another exciting edition of the tournament. All eyes now turn to Deepti’s preparations for the upcoming ODI World Cup, where she is expected to play a vital role for Team India.
Also read: Full schedule for the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025
