Vaishnavi Sharma credits Harmanpreet Kaur’s clarity after standout debut

Originally posted on Crictoday | By V.M.Suriya Narayanan | Last updated Dec 22, 2025 5:42 AM ET

Vaishnavi Sharma enjoyed a memorable start to her international journey, making a strong impact on debut in the opening T20I against Sri Lanka at Visakhapatnam on Sunday. India cruised to an eight-wicket victory after limiting the visitors to 121 for 6 in their 20 overs. Showing composure beyond her experience, Vaishnavi bowled with control and discipline, finishing with figures of 4–0–16–0. Her ability to keep the batters quiet ensured sustained pressure on Sri Lanka and laid the foundation for India’s comfortable chase.

“She reminded me of my past performances and told me I’ve always done well. Her words gave me a lot of confidence,” Vaishnavi Sharma said.

Vaishnavi also spoke about the clear direction and understanding that Harmanpreet Kaur provides in the squad.

What's more nerve-racking than making your #TeamIndia Debut

Addressing the post-match press conference

Presenting PC tales ft. Vaishnavi Sharma ️#INDvSL | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/9bqePD9yPO
— BCCI Women (@BCCIWomen) December 22, 2025

“During huddles, she keeps the message simple. Stay in the moment and do your job to the best of your ability,” she added.

Reflecting on her first appearance, Vaishnavi revealed she felt a wave of nerves before the start but found her composure soon after play got underway.

“I was a bit nervous before the National Anthem, but once it was over, I settled down,” she said.

Smriti Mandhana achieved a historic milestone in the chase, becoming just the second woman to surpass 4,000 T20I runs, reaching the mark quicker than anyone before her. She scored 25 and featured in a vital second-wicket stand with Jemimah Rodrigues, who later combined with captain Harmanpreet Kaur to steer India to an eight-wicket victory in the series opener.

Earlier, India’s bowlers kept things tight after opting to field, holding Sri Lanka to 121 for 6. Three run-outs further hurt the visitors, while Deepti Sharma led a disciplined attack. Sri Lanka opener Vishmi Gunaratne top-scored with 39 but found it difficult to lift the scoring rate as India maintained control throughout Innings.

This article first appeared on Crictoday and was syndicated with permission.

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