“Wasn’t sure Australia would let me in” - Jemimah’s cheeky dig before WBBL 2025-26 opener

Team India batter Jemimah Rodrigues had a cheeky dig while speaking to the broadcaster ahead of the WBBL 11 clash between Brisbane Heat and Melbourne Renegades. Jemimah, who is representing the Heat this season, was part of the side’s season opener on November 9.

Before the game, the broadcaster congratulated Jemimah for winning the recent ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup. In response, the Indian star came up with a humorous remark, referring to her match-winning innings in the semi-final against Australia, where she had scored an unbeaten 127 to chase down a record 339-run target.

"Honestly, I wasn't sure if Australia would allow me to cross the border to come here after the semi-final, but honestly, everyone has been so warm and welcoming," she said. "Everyone is so happy in general for the growth of women's cricket that's happened because of that win, it is going to change massively, not just in India but all over the world.”

Jemimah had a memorable World Cup campaign despite a slow start to the tournament. She ended with 292 runs in seven innings at an average of 58.40 and a strike rate of 101.03, including one fifty and one century.

Jemimah managed only six runs off nine balls

In the semi-final, she came out to bat at number three and stitched a 167-run partnership with skipper Harmanpreet Kaur for the third wicket. Then, she remained not out till the end and guided India to that historical chase with five wickets and nine balls to spare.

However, her WBBL campaign began on a disappointing note. In a rain-curtailed match, the Renegades defeated the Brisbane Heat by seven wickets. Jemimah managed only six runs off nine balls before being dismissed by Alice Capsey.

While batting first, the Brisbane Heat managed only 133 runs in 20 overs. In reply, the Melbourne Renegades were set a DLS-revised target of 66 runs in eight overs. The defending champions chased it down in style with seven wickets and three balls to spare.

Skipper Georgia Wareham was adjudged Player of the Match for her all-round brilliance. She picked up three wickets and later contributed a crucial unbeaten 16 runs during the chase.

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