Jemimah Rodrigues Skips WBBL to Support Smriti Mandhana After Wedding Gets Postponed

Indian cricketer Jemimah Rodrigues has chosen to remain in India to support her close friend and teammate Smriti Mandhana, whose wedding was postponed following a medical emergency in the family. As a result, the Brisbane Heat have confirmed that Jemimah will miss the remainder of the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) season.

Jemimah had initially travelled home after Heat’s match against the Hobart Hurricanes as she was scheduled to attend Mandhana’s wedding to music composer Palash Muchhal on November 23. However, the celebrations were halted when Mandhana’s father, Srinivas Mandhana, suffered symptoms of a heart attack and was admitted to a Sangli hospital. The next day, Muchhal himself was hospitalised, prompting both families to call off the wedding for now.

Muchhal’s mother later confirmed that he had returned to Mumbai and was recovering, but the families decided to temporarily pause all ceremonies. Mandhana also removed all wedding-related posts from her social media pages.

Brisbane Heat Release Official Statement

The Brisbane Heat announced that they fully supported Jemimah’s request to remain in India:

“Rodrigues will stay in India to support her teammate, and the Heat has agreed to her not returning for the final four games of the WBBL season.”

Heat CEO Terry Svenson said the club prioritised Jemimah’s wellbeing through a difficult period.

“It has been a challenging time for Jemi. While it’s unfortunate she won’t take further part in the WBBL, we were more than willing to support her request. We wish Smriti Mandhana and her family the very best.”

He added that Jemimah expressed disappointment about missing the season but appreciated the club’s understanding. She has stayed in touch with the players and extended her best wishes for their upcoming matches.

Jemimah, who has long shared a close bond with Mandhana on and off the field, featured in just three WBBL matches this season before flying back for the planned wedding festivities.