Star Indian all-rounder Deepti Sharma’s family has levelled serious allegations of fraud and theft against fellow state cricketer Arushi Goel. The incident, which has come to light just as Team India enters a crucial preparatory phase for their England tour, has sent shockwaves through the cricketing fraternity.
Deepti Sharma, celebrated for her on-field prowess and leadership, filed a formal complaint through her brother, Sumit Sharma, at Sadar police station in Agra. It is understood that Arushi Goel allegedly duped Deepti of over ₹25 lakhs. Furthermore, she reportedly broke into Deepti’s Agra residence and stole valuables, including gold and silver jewelry, as well as ₹2 lakh in foreign currency.
Sumit Sharma detailed that over the past two years, Arushi and her family capitalized on their close association with Deepti and her trust, allegedly seeking financial help under the pretense of family emergencies. When approached to return the money, Arushi reportedly refused. The situation escalated last month when Arushi allegedly broke into Deepti’s flat, changed the original locks, and absconded with jewelry and over USD 2,500.
“The complaint was registered after an initial inquiry revealed some substance in the allegations,” ACP Agra Sadar Sukanya Sharma told The Times of India. “We have filed an FIR under multiple sections, including theft, housebreaking, criminal breach of trust, and provocation with intent to breach peace.”
Arushi, known both for her promising on-field performances, is a prominent face in the domestic arena. Most recently, she impressed with a crucial 74-run innings in the Senior Women Inter-Zonal Multi-Day Trophy. The 27-year-old is also a junior clerk with the Indian Railways in Agra division.
The timing of the incident couldn’t be more inopportune for Deepti, who is currently attending India’s training camp in preparation for the high-profile England series, starting June 28. On the same, her brother, Sumit shared, “This has caused significant distress to Deepti, who is preoccupied with training and has little time to address these issues personally.”
With India slated to play five T20Is and three ODIs against England, the team management will look to ensure that this off-field matter does not distract one of their key players.
