Just a week after the Women’s World Cup 2025 final against South Africa at the DY Sports Patil Academy, India’s semi-final victory star against Australia, Jeminah Rodriues, returned to Australia for the start of the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) 2025 as he would feature for the Brisbane Heats. Ahead of the interaction, she joked about the fans of the Australian side. 

The 25-year-old Jemimah Rodrigues remained unbeaten on 127 runs in 134 balls with the help of 14 boundaries at a strike rate of 94.78 as India chased down 341 runs against the Alysa Healy-led side. She, however, reacted to the broadcaster shedding light on how their victory would inspire the next generation and work for the growth of women’s cricket.

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“I was not sure if Australia would allow me to cross the border to come here after the semi-finals, but honestly, everyone’s been so warm and welcoming, and everyone is just so happy in general for the growth of women’s cricket has happened because of that win because we know it’s going to change massively not just in India but all over the world.” Rodrigues joked during the interaction with the broadcasters.  

Watch: Jemimah Rodrigues' cheeky comment on Australia during Women’s Big Bash League 2025

Rodrigues didn’t make a great start with the bat in the WBBL campaign as he got just six runs at number three for the Brisbane Heat as her side was bundled out for 133 runs in 20 overs. 

🇮🇳 Jemimah Rodrigues jokes that she didn't think Australia would let her in the country after her incredible #CWC25 semifinal innings 😂

(via @7Cricket) #WBBL11 pic.twitter.com/BfwNZgZquP

— Weber Women's Big Bash League (@WBBL) November 9, 2025

“After the 2017 World Cup, things gradually changed, and within two years, we had special nets just for girls. Standing there made me realize women’s cricket had truly arrived. Now, seeing parents say they want their sons to play like me feels incredibly special. But this is just the beginning. Our team understands we have greater responsibility as world champions.” Rodrigues addressed during an interaction.

The Melbourne Renegades set a revised target of 66 runs in eight overs under the DLS method. Despite the early setbacks, the Renegades completed the chase with three wickets down, thanks to an unbeaten 34 runs from Courtney Webb.