Star India batter Jemimah Rodrigues will not return to the Brisbane Heat for the remainder of the Women’s Big Bash League. The club confirmed she will stay in India after the postponement of her teammate Smriti Mandhana’s wedding.
Rodrigues had flown home for the celebrations, but the wedding was called off due to an illness in Mandhana’s family. The 24-year-old has decided to remain in India to support them. The Heat, for whom Rodrigues was a top international draft pick, stated they fully respect her decision.
Heat Support Player’s Decision
Brisbane Heat CEO Terry Svenson expressed support for Rodrigues in an official franchise statement.
“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,” Svenson said.
He also relayed the player’s own message to the club and its supporters. “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 added.
The Heat, still without a win this season, now prepare for their next match against the Sydney Sixers. All-rounder Grace Harris returns to the squad, replacing Lily Bassingthwaighte.
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