![Jemimah Rodrigues [Source: @mufaddal_vohra/x]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1761845903375_aus_vs_ind.jpg?type=hq)
Jemimah Rodrigues [Source: @mufaddal_vohra/x]
Jemimah Rodrigues orchestrated a dramatic heist for the Indian team in the second semifinal of the 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup. Chasing a record target of 339 runs, against serial World Cup winners and defending champions as well as hitherto unbeaten Australia, Rodrigues composed 127* runs of the highest order from just 134 balls with 14 regal boundaries.
Reflecting her record knock and tumultuous journey in international cricket over the past few months, the 25-year-old got emotional during her post-match speech as she received the ‘Player of the Match’ award.
Jemimah Rodrigues admits going through anxiety
While speaking during the post-match presentation ceremony, Jemimah Rodrigues thanked her family for providing her support over the last six months. While she batted at number three in the game, the cricketer also admitted that she was unaware of her batting position up until the final few minutes of her arrival to the crease. She said:
“Firstly, I want to thank Jesus. I couldn't have carried it alone. Thanks to him. To my dad and mum and to everyone who have carried me. Last six months have been tough.”
“I didn't know I was batting at three. The discussion was going on and I said let me know. Five minutes before, I knew I was batting at three. It was not about proving myself but it was about taking India home. We have lost in crunch situations.”
When asked why she did not celebrate her century, Jemimah Rodrigues responded that her primary focus was to guide India past the finishing line. The cricketer opened up on past challenges, admitting that she even went through anxiety at one stage.
“Today, it wasn't about my fifty or my hundred. It was about winning for India. I know I was dropped a few chances but the God carried me throughout. Last year, I was dropped from this World Cup. I was in form but things kept happening. I have amazing people around me. I have cried every day. I was going through anxiety. It was a challenge for me. I just had to show up every day and God carried me through.”
Reflecting her innings and partnerships with Harmanpreet Kaur and Deepti Sharma, she added:
“Initially, I keep talking to myself. In the end, I was just murmuring one scripture from the Bible. It says, "stand still and God will help you." I just tried to stay till the calm. In the end to see India winning by five wickets, I couldn't stop myself.”
“When Harry Di came, we spoke about building a partnership. Deepti kept talking with me every ball. Richa also spoke with me. When I was finding it hard, my teammates lifted me.”
India will now face South Africa in the final of the 2025 Women’s World Cup on Sunday, November 2.
