'Wasn't sure if Australia would allow me to cross border' - Jemimah Rodrigues on playing WBBL after semi-final heroics

Published - 09 Nov 2025, 14:17 IST | Updated - 09 Nov 2025, 14:49 IST

India batter Jemimah Rodrigues became a household name in the country for her superhumanly knock in the semi-finals of the Women's World Cup 2025 against a power-packed Australia side. This superlative outing ensured that the Indians crossed the line despite being in immense pressure to complete a record run-chase and qualified for the finals of the tournament, which they eventually went on to win as well.

After a 134-ball 127 not-out, Jemimah was also part of the summit clash against South Africa, and while the nation is still in hangover of the maiden ICC triumph, she has travelled all the way to Australia to feature in the Women's Big Bash League (WBBL) 2025, where she is representing the Brisbane Heat Women. While giving her honest reaction on reaching Down Under, Jemimah was in a light mood, saying she was not sure if the Australians would allow her to come to their country after what she did to them in the semis.

“Honestly, I was not sure if the Australians would allow me to cross the borders after the semi-finals, but honestly, everyone has been so warm and welcoming. And everyone is just so happy in general for the growth of women's cricket that has happened because of that win, because we know it is gonna change massively, not just in India, but all over the world,” Jemimah said in a video interaction with 7Cricket.

Jemimah ended her Women's World Cup 2025 campaign as the third-highest run-getter for the Harmanpreet Kaur-led side, with 292 runs across seven innings at an average of a mindboggling 58.40. Apart from batting, she remained impressive in the field as well, taking some astonishing catches, affecting some important run-outs and also saving crucial runs for her side while fielding.

Speaking of Jemimah's journey with Brisbane Heat Women, she has been associated with the side since the previous season. In 2024, she scored 267 runs in 10 matches at an average of 33.37. Previously, she has also represented Melbourne Renegades Women and Melbourne Stars Women, accounting for 650 runs in 31 matches of her accomplished WBBL career.

After playing a significant part in India's World Cup win, Jemimah will now be hoping to contribute equally well for the Brisbane-based side and pave the way for a victory in the WBBL 2025 as well.