Jemimah Skips WBBL for Smriti: A True Teammate’s Move
When duty calls, some choose career. Others choose friendship. In a heartwarming move that has captured the hearts of fans across India, Jemimah Rodrigues has made a decision that redefines what it means to be a true teammate. She has withdrawn from the remainder of the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) to be with her close friend and Indian cricket star, Smriti Mandhana, during a deeply personal family crisis.
Table of Contents
- The Sacrifice: Jemimah Rodrigues Skips WBBL
- Why Smriti Mandhana’s Wedding Was Postponed
- Suniel Shetty’s Powerful Praise for a ‘Real Teammate’
- The Deeper Bond Between Jemimah and Smriti
- Fans React to an Act of ‘Quiet Solidarity’
- Conclusion: More Than Just Teammates
- Sources
The Sacrifice: Jemimah Rodrigues Skips WBBL
For any international cricketer, a spot in the WBBL is a golden opportunity. It’s a platform for global exposure, skill enhancement, and lucrative contracts. Yet, Jemimah Rodrigues has willingly stepped away from her role with the Brisbane Heat after just three matches to return to India . Her reason? To support her friend Smriti Mandhana, whose wedding was abruptly postponed due to a serious family health emergency .
This isn’t a minor scheduling conflict. It’s a significant professional and financial sacrifice. By leaving the league early, Rodrigues not only forfeits her match fees but also potential bonuses and the invaluable experience of competing at a high level. Her choice speaks volumes about her character and the value she places on her personal relationships over professional gain.
Why Smriti Mandhana’s Wedding Was Postponed
The couple, Smriti Mandhana and music composer Palash Muchhal, had their wedding scheduled for November 23, 2025, in Sangli, Maharashtra . The celebrations were set to be a major event in the Indian sports and entertainment world. However, the joyous occasion was halted when Mandhana’s father, Shrinivas Mandhana, suffered a sudden and serious health scare, with reports indicating heart attack symptoms .
Faced with a family emergency, the couple made the difficult but necessary decision to postpone their wedding indefinitely to focus entirely on his care and recovery . This private turmoil is where Jemimah’s public act of support became so meaningful.
Suniel Shetty’s Powerful Praise for a ‘Real Teammate’
Bollywood actor and fitness enthusiast Suniel Shetty, known for his candid social media posts, was deeply moved by Rodrigues’ gesture. He took to his platform to publicly commend her, coining the phrase that has now gone viral: “This is what real teammates do” .
Shetty elaborated on the idea of “quiet solidarity,” praising Jemimah for her action that wasn’t for show or publicity, but a simple, profound act of human kindness . His words resonated with thousands, highlighting that in the high-pressure world of professional sports, genuine human connection can sometimes be the most powerful force of all .
The Deeper Bond Between Jemimah and Smriti
Their friendship isn’t a new development for public consumption. Jemimah Rodrigues and Smriti Mandhana have been at the forefront of India’s women’s cricket revolution for years. They’ve shared the crease in countless international matches, from the WPL to the Women’s T20 World Cup, forging a bond that extends far beyond the boundary ropes.
This act of support is a testament to the sisterhood that exists within the Indian dressing room—a camaraderie that fans often see in celebratory moments but rarely in times of private struggle. Jemimah’s decision to be a pillar of support during one of Smriti’s most challenging times underscores a relationship built on mutual trust and deep respect.
Fans React to an Act of ‘Quiet Solidarity’
The cricketing community has been overwhelmingly supportive. Social media is abuzz with fans lauding Jemimah for her selfless act. The narrative has shifted from just cricket statistics to a celebration of empathy and loyalty.
Many see this as a powerful counterpoint to the often cut-throat nature of professional sports. It’s a reminder that athletes are human beings first, with deep emotional connections that can sometimes be more important than a game. This story has sparked conversations about the importance of mental health and emotional support systems for players who live under constant public scrutiny.
Conclusion: More Than Just Teammates
In a world obsessed with wins, losses, and individual accolades, the story of Jemimah Rodrigues skipping the WBBL for Smriti Mandhana is a refreshing and powerful narrative. It transcends sport, touching on universal themes of friendship, loyalty, and humanity.
Suniel Shetty was right. This is what real teammates—and real friends—do. They show up when it matters most, not for the cameras, but for the heart. Jemimah’s quiet act of solidarity has not only comforted a friend but has also inspired a nation, proving that sometimes the greatest victories are won off the field.
Sources
- Times of India: ‘Real teammates’: Suniel Shetty praises Jemimah for standing by Mandhana
- Brisbane Heat Official Announcement: Jemimah Rodrigues to miss remainder of WBBL season (Referenced via news reports )
- ESPNcricinfo: Women’s Big Bash League 2025 Coverage