I am so blessed – Jemimah Rodrigues on having encouraging teammates

Jemimah Rodrigues’ mind-blowing knock of 127* carved a historic chase for India as they took out Australia emphatically in the second semi-final of the ICC Women's World Cup 2025. Rodrigues, who walked out to bat at number three, showcased extraordinary temperament and composure as she guided India to the finish line, answering her critics once and for all.

Talking at the post-match presentation after her rollicking knock, Rodrigues opened up on what she told herself during the innings her message for every single batter who walked out to bat at the other end. She also had a very special message for the fans who were present in the stands.

Revealing what she told herself during the innings, Jemi said, “I think initially I was just trying to stay focussed, I just keep talking to myself. But towards the end I was just quoting one scripture from the Bible. Because I had lost energy, I was very tired. I was drained and one scripture that said, "just stand still and God will fight for you". And that's what I did. And I just stood there and he fought for me.”

Underlining her emotions during the game, Jemi said, “I think there was a lot inside of me left. It was really hard but I just tried to stay calm till the ball finished. And at the end just seeing that India win by 5 wickets, I think I couldn't stop myself.”

Divulging the discussions with everyone who walked in and played crucial cameos to set up the chase, Rodrigues said, “So when Harry di came, all we spoke was about one good partnership. We just said, runs are coming. But towards the end, actually, if you would have seen, I was not able to, I was trying to push myself, I was not able to do. Deepti keeps speaking to me, Deepti every ball was speaking to me and encouraging me. Then Richa came and she started lifting me up. So you know, I am so blessed that I have, when I cannot carry on, my teammates encourage me to carry on. I can't take credit for anything of this. I know I have done nothing.”

She concluded with a note of gratitude for the fans and also how close Navi Mumbai has been for her, stating, “Navi Mumbai has always been special for me. And I couldn't ask for anything better. I would like to thank each and every member who chanted, who shouted, who believed, who cheered. Everything. And I knew when I was down and out, but for every run they were cheering, it pumped me up. So thank you for everyone who came in large numbers and everyone who supported.”