Indian cricketer Jemimah Rodrigues will not return to Australia for the rest of the Women's Big Bash League season. The Brisbane Heat franchise has released her from all upcoming matches by mutual agreement. Rodrigues had traveled to India after the Heat's match on November 15 to attend teammate Smriti Mandhana's wedding. However, the wedding was postponed after Mandhana's father suffered a cardiac health scare and was hospitalized in Sangli with angina symptoms. Mandhana's fiance also faced health issues the following day. Rodrigues, who was present for pre-wedding ceremonies, chose to remain in India to support her close friend during this difficult time. The Heat CEO expressed full understanding of her decision, stating the franchise was willing to agree to her request. Rodrigues communicated her disappointment at not rejoining the team and thanked the club and fans for their support.
Family Health Crisis Leads to Decision
Rodrigues had returned to India specifically to attend Smriti Mandhana's wedding celebrations after playing three matches this season. Her plans changed dramatically when Srinivas Mandhana, the bride's father, experienced a serious cardiac-related health emergency just before the ceremony. He was hospitalized in Sangli with symptoms initially feared to be a heart attack before doctors diagnosed angina. Adding to the family's concerns, Mandhana's fiance, musician Palaash Muchhal, was rushed to the hospital the next day with flu and acidity complications. Rodrigues, already present in Sangli for pre-wedding ceremonies, decided to stay back in India to support her teammate rather than returning to Brisbane. The Heat CEO confirmed the franchise completely understood her situation and wished both families well.
Source: Link