Out of nowhere, Indian cricket star Smriti Mandhana has entered into a rare tough stage stage of her life. Her marriage with Palash Muchhal is now covered with uncertainty. In the moment of hard time, Smriti Mandhana has Her friend Jemimah Rodrigues by her side.
Jemimah Rodrigues, a star of the Indian women’s cricket team and a key player in their recent World Cup win, will not participate in the remainder of the Women’s Big Bash League 2025. Her franchise, Brisbane Heat, has confirmed that Jemimah will remain in India to support her close friend Smriti Mandhana and her family during this difficult time.
Jemimah Rodrigues stay strong for Smriti Mandhana
Jemimah was the only Indian player in the 11th season of the Women’s Big Bash League. Just days after winning the World Cup, she arrived in Australia and played three matches for the Brisbane Heat. She then returned to India to attend Smriti Mandhana’s wedding ceremony, which was to take place on November 23rd with musician Palash Muchhal.
Smriti Mandhana’s wedding was postponed the same day after her father, Shrinivas Mandhana, suddenly became ill during breakfast and had to be hospitalized. Smriti’s manager, Tuhin Mishra, confirmed the news. Following the incident, Jemima decided not to return to Australia and stay in India.
The franchise said in an official statement, “Jemimah Rodrigues has requested to be released from the remainder of the Women’s Big Bash League. She was in India to attend Smriti Mandhana’s wedding, but the wedding was later postponed due to a medical emergency. Jemimah wishes to be with her teammate, and we respect her decision.”
Heat CEO Terry Svenson also supported Jemimah, saying, “This has been a challenging time for Jemimah. We understand her feelings and had no hesitation in making the decision to allow her to remain in India. We wish Jemimah and Smriti’s family all the best.”