NEW DELHI: Jemimah Rodrigues' comeback to competitive cricket after the high of India's World Cup triumph was a subdued one, as the batting star managed just six runs in Brisbane Heat's seven-wicket loss to Melbourne Renegades in the Women's Big Bash League on Sunday.
Playing her first match since India's historic ODI World Cup win last week, Rodrigues looked eager to make an impact but was dismissed after facing nine balls, edging Alice Capsey to Deandra Dottin at backward point.
While her performance may have fallen short of expectations, Rodrigues' presence brought star appeal to the game and boosted the spectacle for fans.
Brisbane Heat posted a video on their X handle, showing a smiling Jemimah making he way to the pitch, saying," I am here in Brisbane, can you believe it, very excited for today, let's go."
Jemi! Our World Cup superstar is here! 🩵 @JemiRodrigues | #WBBL11 pic.twitter.com/cA8mIzPo3M
— Brisbane Heat (@HeatBBL) November 9, 2025
Her early exit came at a crucial juncture as Heat could only post 133 all out in 20 overs.
Nadine de Klerk (40 off 38 balls) and Chinelle Henry (29 off 22) offered resistance, but the Renegades' spinners dominated proceedings.
Skipper Georgia Wareham (3/12) and Alice Capsey (3/22) were outstanding in the middle overs, while Tess Flintoff (3/30) ensured there was no late flourish.
In reply, the Renegades chased down a revised target of 66 runs in 8 overs after a rain interruption, reaching the total in 7.3 overs. Courtney Webb led the way with an unbeaten 34 off 22 balls, steering her team home with skipper Wareham (16 not out) at the other end.
Brief Scores:
Brisbane Heat Women: 133 in 20 overs (Nadine de Klerk 40, Chinelle Henry 29; Wareham 3/12, Capsey 3/22, Flintoff 3/30)
Melbourne Renegades Women: 66/3 in 7.3 overs (Courtney Webb 34, Wareham 16 not out; Ginger 2/16, Hamilton 1/18).
(With PTI Inputs)