Jemimah Rodrigues responded subtly to the trolls targeting Smriti Mandhana while congratulating the Indian batter on a major milestone. On Sunday, December 21, during the inaugural Women’s T20I between India and Sri Lanka in Visakhapatnam, Mandhana became the first Indian woman and second overall after New Zealand’s Suzie Bates reaches 4,000 runs in Women’s T20Is.
Congratulating Mandhana, Jemimah wrote: “She’s my sister,” followed by “Crazy biceps too,” subtly responding to online comments about Mandhana’s figure.
Earlier this month, Mandhana attended the OnePlus launch event at the Bengaluru Palace wearing a stunning floor-length white dress. While her poised and elegant looks have drawn widespread admiration, some social media users have focused on her athletic figure and broad shoulders rather than celebrating her achievements. Smriti Mandhana at OnePlus launch event at Bengaluru Palace. Courtesy: PTI
Mandhana had a tough game in the opening T20I, despite India recording a commanding eight-wicket win to take a 1-0 lead in the five-match series. The left-hander made history but only managed a run-a-ball 25, hitting four fours before being run out by Inok Ranaweer’s left arm.
She also struggled in the field and dropped a catch from Shree Charani which provided a lifeline to Vishmi Gunaratne. Gunaratne tried to clear wide of the crease but the ball went straight to Mandhan who fell and deflected it over the ropes for a six.
JEMIMAH SEPTEMBER IN VISAKHAPATNAM
Jemimah played the winning innings on Sunday. Chasing 122 in favorable batting conditions, she remained unbeaten on 69 off 44 balls, hitting 10 fours and anchoring the chase with key partnerships including 54 with Smriti Mandhana and an unbroken 55 with skipper Harmanpreet Kaur.
India reached the target in 14.4 overs with 32 balls to sparesecuring an important series lead. Her aggressive yet controlled knock kept India in command throughout the chase. Jemimah will continue her impressive form in the second T20I on Tuesday, December 23 in Visakhapatnam.
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Issued by:
sabyasachi chowdhury
Published on:
December 22, 2025
