Jemimah Rodrigues set to feature in WBBL final for Brisbane Heat despite injury setback in Challenger match
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Brisbane, Nov 30 (NationPress) Indian cricketer Jemimah Rodrigues is ready to take the field in the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) final for the Brisbane Heat against the Melbourne Renegades at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Sunday, despite facing an injury during their Challenger match against Sydney Thunder.
Jemimah suffered a wrist injury while attempting a diving catch near the boundary and did not return to play. She had batted at number three, scoring a pivotal 43 runs off 30 balls before being forced to retire just as the Heat neared victory.
According to Brisbane Heat captain Jess Jonassen, "From my understanding, there's no real concern there. She's going through all the right processes, being an overseas player, an Indian player with an important series on the horizon against the Australian team."
"Reports suggest it's just a minor soft tissue issue, and there's nothing more serious at play. I believe she should be ready to go for tomorrow," added Jess to cricket.com.au.
Despite potential rain on Sunday, with a reserve day scheduled for Monday, Jess advised her team to remain ready for a complete match. "I often joke that I should work with the Bureau of Meteorology because I check the weather so frequently. But in Melbourne, the weather can shift rapidly," she said.
"While we are mindful of the weather, my guidance to the players is to leave the planning to me, and for them to focus on their preparation. We encountered a rain-affected match earlier this season, and we adapted well to that situation, showcasing our flexibility."
The Heat are currently on a six-match winning streak, and Jess believes the short turnaround before the WBBL final will not hinder her squad. "In fact, I see the quick turnaround as a positive, especially when the team is in a good frame of mind," she remarked.
"Having previously been the team that advanced first without playing for a while, I understand the dynamics of momentum in T20 cricket. Ultimately, it's essential to show up and embrace the situation. There are advantages and disadvantages, but for our girls, it’s about enjoying this rare opportunity and treating it as if it could be their last game."
