Jemimah Rodrigues has shaken off her rust and rediscovered her form ahead of the tour of South Africa

Jemimah Rodrigues is gradually finding her rhythm again after a three-month layoff due to injury. Two fluent knocks for Mumbai in the Senior Women’s T20 Trophy offer encouraging signs ahead of India’s upcoming tour of South Africa.

The India batsman has scored 84 runs in two matches since her comeback, averaging 84 at a strike rate of 140. Her performances come at an important time as Jemimah looks to regain match sharpness and momentum before the national team returns to international action.

Jemimah started her comeback with a 19-ball 26 against Uttar Pradesh on November 2 at the MCA Ground 2 in Gahunje, Pune. She hit three fours and a six as Mumbai won by 29 runs in the rain-limited contest. Defending a target of 85 in the match nine overs a side, Mumbai restricted Uttar Pradesh to 55 for six.

She followed it up with a more impressive contribution against Delhi on November 4 at the MCA Cricket Stadium in Gahunje. Jemimah scored 58 off 41 balls, hitting seven fours and a six as Mumbai chased down 152 in 18.4 overs to secure a seven-wicket win. Courtesy: MCA

JEMIMAH CAUSES INJURY BEHIND HER

The two innings marks an encouraging start to competitive cricket after a difficult spell on the sidelines. Jemimah recently declared herself fit after completing a three-month rehab for a hamstring injury sustained while playing for Southern Brave in The Hundred on August 3.

The BCCI medical team subsequently diagnosed the injury as a severe tear in the right hamstring. This forced her to miss the Women’s Asia Cup T20, the Asian Games and India’s home white-ball series against Zimbabwe.

Her return to form is particularly significant given her importance to India’s middle order. The right-hander will be looking to make the most of the remaining home games and carry his confidence into the international season.

After missing three important assignments during her rehabilitation, the Senior Women’s T20 Trophy provides her with an opportunity to regain her rhythm and get valuable game time ahead of the challenge in South Africa.

India are scheduled to tour South Africa from December 9 to 30 for a multi-format series comprising one Test, three ODIs and three T20Is. The tour will begin with a Test in Gqeberha, followed by an ODI leg and three T20Is. The BCCI is yet to announce the Indian squad for the tour.

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