Deepti Sharma's impressive half-century propelled India to a four-wicket victory over England in the first One Day International held in Southampton. This win gives India a 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series and marks their fifth consecutive ODI victory on English soil.

England's innings saw early setbacks, leaving them at 97 for four. Sophia Dunkley's resilient 83 helped stabilize the innings, allowing England to reach 258 for six in their 50 overs. Kranti Goud made an early breakthrough for India, dismissing Amy Jones and Tammy Beaumont to leave England struggling at 20 for two. A 71-run partnership between Emma Lamb and Nat Sciver-Brunt offered some respite before Lamb was caught off Sneh Rana's bowling. Dunkley and Alice Davidson-Richards then combined for a crucial 106-run partnership, giving England the momentum to push past 200. However, Davidson-Richards was eventually stumped, halting their progress.

India's chase started strong, but a cluster of wickets shifted the momentum back towards England. Deepti Sharma and Jemimah Rodrigues then forged a vital partnership that steered India close to the finish line. Sharma's unbeaten 62, her 14th ODI half-century, was instrumental in securing the victory. India's successful chase of 259 is their second-highest in ODIs.

Kranti Goud and Sneh Rana's early breakthroughs with the ball put England on the back foot. Despite Dunkley's resistance, the Indian spinners bowled economically, restricting England's total. Smriti Mandhana and Pratika impressed with the bat at the start of the innings, setting a solid foundation. Although a middle-order wobble caused some concern, Deepti Sharma anchored the chase and guided her team to victory with ten balls to spare.

Deepti Sharma was named Player of the Match for her outstanding performance. Her crucial innings and her ability to stabilize the chase under pressure were key to India's success.