Rodrigues Takes Big Call Over WBBL Commitments After India Teammate Mandhana's Wedding Postponed

Brisbane Heat's Jemimah Rodrigues has been granted a release from her Women's Big Bash League (WBBL) contract to remain in India and support teammate Smriti Mandhana, after Mandhana's wedding was postponed due to her father's sudden illness. Rodrigues had initially returned to India as part of a pre-arranged agreement to attend Mandhana's wedding, which was scheduled for last weekend. However, the celebrations were called off after Mandhana's father, Shrinivas Mandhana, was hospitalized with angina.

The Brisbane Heat organization has expressed its support for Rodrigues' decision. CEO Terry Svenson stated that while the club was disappointed that fans would not see more of Rodrigues in action, they understood the challenging circumstances and were willing to grant her request to stay in India. "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," Svenson said. He further extended the club's best wishes to Mandhana's family. Rodrigues has also communicated her disappointment at not being able to return to the WBBL and has expressed her appreciation to the club and fans for their understanding.

The postponement of Mandhana's wedding has been a difficult time for the Indian cricketer and her family. Mandhana's fiancé, Palash Muchhal, was also briefly hospitalized due to stress-related symptoms. Following the postponement, Mandhana removed all wedding-related posts from her Instagram account. Her teammates and close friends, including Rodrigues, Shreyanka Patil, and Radha Yadav, also removed or unfollowed related content.

Amidst the family's health concerns, there have been swirling rumors surrounding the reasons for the wedding's postponement. Some reports suggest that Muchhal was also admitted to a hospital in Mumbai due to exhaustion and stress.

Rodrigues's absence will mean she misses the Heat's final four games of the WBBL season. She had been Brisbane's top international draft pick this year and was in her second season with the club. Before departing, Rodrigues played a crucial role in India's Women's World Cup victory, including an unbeaten century in the semi-final against Australia.

The Brisbane Heat are currently chasing their first win of the tournament after a narrow loss against the Adelaide Strikers. Allrounder Grace Harris will return to the Heat lineup for their upcoming match against the Sydney Sixers.

The Heat's decision to release Rodrigues highlights the importance of supporting players during personal challenges. As the team continues its WBBL campaign, the club and its fans have sent their best wishes to Rodrigues and Mandhana's family during this difficult time.