Jemimah Rodrigues to stay by Smriti Mandhana's side and miss rest of WBBL 2025, Brisbane Heat support her decision

India's star batter Jemimah Rodrigues has decided to stay back with her teammate and friend Smriti Mandhana as the latter's father was hospitalised leading to wedding getting postponed. Rodrigues had missed Brisbane Heat's few games be a part of Mandhana's wedding celebrations but now she will miss the remainder of Women's Big Bash League (WBBL) 2025 as well.

Brisbane Heat released a statement, supporting Rodrigues' decision to stay back. The WBBL franchise's CEO Terry Svenson said that Rodrigues told them that she it is disappointing that she won't be able to rejoin the squad

“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 said.

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“The Heat club obviously wish her and Smriti Mandhana’s family all the best for the future.

“Jemi told us she was disappointed not to be coming back and has passed on her appreciation to the club and the Heat fans for being so understanding of the circumstances. She has been in touch with the players and wished them all the best for the rest of their games,” Svenson added.

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Jemimah's WBBL 2025 numbers

Earlier, Jemimah joined Brisbane Heat for WBBL days after India's maiden Women's ODI World Cup 2025 triumph. She did not find form in the shortest format straightaway. From three innings, she scored 37 runs.

Changes in Brisbane Heat

Meanwhile, Grace Harris has returned to Brisbane Heat after managing her workload requirements. She will replace Lily Bassingthwaighte. Brisbane Heat are scheduled to go up against Sydney Sixers in their next match at Adelaide Oval on November 28. Currently, they are at the bottom of the points table with six losses from as many games. Even if they win their remaining matches, they will not qualify for the playoffs.