Jemimah Rodrigues withdraws from WBBL to stand by Smriti Mandhana
What's the story
Indian cricketer Jemimah Rodrigues has been released from the remainder of the Women's Big Bash League (WBBL) season by Brisbane Heat. Rodrigues had requested this as a gesture of support for her India teammate and close friend, Smriti Mandhana, who recently faced a personal crisis. The wedding festivities between Mandhana and music composer Palash Muchhal were interrupted due to a medical emergency in her family.
Wedding delay
Mandhana's wedding postponed amid family health crisis
The wedding between Mandhana and Muchhal was scheduled for November 23. However, the celebrations were halted when her father was hospitalized with heart attack symptoms. The news of the wedding postponement was confirmed by Mandhana's manager. The next day, Muchhal too was hospitalized with chest pain and was later shifted to a better facility in Mumbai. Both have been discharged now.
Supportive gesture
Rodrigues's decision to stay in India
Rodrigues had initially flown to India for Mandhana's wedding after Brisbane Heat's match against Hobart Hurricanes. However, with the recent developments, she has chosen to stay back in India and support her friend. The Heat has agreed to let her miss the final four WBBL games of the season due to unforeseen circumstances.
Official statement
Brisbane Heat's CEO comments on Rodrigues's decision
Brisbane Heat's CEO Terry Svenson said, "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." He added that the club wishes Mandhana and her family all the best for the future. Meanwhile, Muchhal is currently battling cheating allegations, although neither family has addressed these rumors yet.