Jemimah Rodrigues, a key member of the Indian women’s cricket team, believes that adaptability and a team-first mentality will be crucial for India’s success at the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup. India, who finished runners-up in the 2020 edition, will begin their campaign against New Zealand on October 4.
Rodrigues, who scored a half-century in India’s first warm-up match against West Indies, emphasized the importance of assessing conditions and playing to the situation. “I just want to keep it simple and do whatever it takes to help the team win,” she said. “When I put things in that perspective, it gets the best out of me and motivates me.”
The 24-year-old also highlighted the need to play to the situation, regardless of the bowler. “It’s not about specific bowlers but about playing to the situation,” she said. “Bowlers can have off days, and as a batter, I need to assess which bowler to attack and when to hold back.”
Rodrigues praised the team’s blend of youth and experience, with players like Richa Ghosh and Shafali Verma having already played in World Cups. “This team is special,” she said. “There’s something in this team, a fire to win, and at the same time, an energy and bond that’s very special.”
Speaking about New Zealand legend Sophie Devine, Rodrigues said, “I’ve always admired her game. We’ve prepared well to bowl against her, and now it’s just about executing our plans.”
India will also face Australia in the group stage, and Rodrigues believes execution will be key against the former champions. “We’ve prepared well and put in the work,” she said. “Now it’s time to execute our plans.”
Rodrigues also praised senior teammates Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur. “Smriti is young, but she understands the game and her role so well,” she said. “Harman di is a big-match player. We want to win it for India and for her.”
