Jemimah Rodrigues To Miss Rest Of The WBBL Season; To Stay In India

Brisbane Heat confirmed star Indian cricketer Jemimah Rodrigues will remain in India, missing the rest of the WBBL season. Granting her request to stay in India following the postponement of teammate Smriti Mandhana’s wedding.

Rodrigues flew home after the Brisbane Heat’s Hobart Hurricanes match to join celebrations, but Mandhana’s father’s illness forced their cancellation.

The 24-year-old chose to stay in India to support Mandhana’s family, and the Heat fully respected her decision.

CEO Terry Svenson acknowledged the disappointment among fans hoping to see more of Rodrigues, but emphasised that the franchise’s priority was her well-being.

Svenson, in a statement released by the franchise, said, “It has obviously been a challenging time for Jemi, so while it is unfortunate that she will take no further part in the WBBL, we were more than willing to agree to her request to remain in India. The Heat club obviously wish her and Smriti Mandhana’s family all the best for the future.”

“Jemi told us she was disappointed not to be coming back and has passed on her appreciation to the club and the Heat fans for being so understanding of the circumstances. She has been in touch with the players and wished them all the best for the rest of their games,” he further added.

After a last-ball loss to the Adelaide Strikers, the Heat focus on Friday’s clash with the Sydney Sixers at Adelaide Oval.

All-rounder Grace Harris returns from rest, replacing Lily Bassingthwaighte, as Brisbane aims to kickstart their WBBL season.

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