The Delhi Capitals skipper, Jemimah Rodrigues, has opened up about her deep connection with teammate Smriti Mandhana, affectionately referring to her as an “elder sister.” The pair are a familiar sight, sharing moments of both triumph and adversity on the cricket field. In a recent interview, Rodrigues elaborated on the unique and supportive dynamic they share.
Rodrigues described their relationship as incredibly pure, akin to the bond between biological sisters. “You get a mix of everything: the masti (fun), the playful teasing, the moments of troubling each other, but also being there for one another when it matters most,” she explained. This blend of lighthearted banter and unwavering support underscores the depth of their friendship.
“She has kind of taken care of me like an elder sister, and it’s really nice to find that comfort, especially in a sport where you’re always away from family,” Rodrigues continued. “In a cricket team, we’re traveling together throughout the year, so I feel very blessed to have that kind of bond.” This sentiment highlights the crucial role such personal connections play in maintaining morale and well-being for athletes constantly on the road.
A Friendship Forged in Support
The close rapport between Jemimah Rodrigues and Smriti Mandhana appears to have been a constant since the early stages of Rodrigues’ career. A testament to the strength of their friendship occurred when Rodrigues made the personal decision to withdraw from the 2025 Big Bash League (BBL) season. This choice was motivated by a desire to remain by Mandhana’s side during a challenging period. At that time, Mandhana was reportedly navigating a personal setback, having recently ended a significant relationship, and her father was also undergoing hospitalisation. Rodrigues’ commitment to providing support during this difficult juncture speaks volumes about her loyalty and the genuine care she has for Mandhana.
This supportive dynamic was again evident during the 2026 Women’s Premier League. Following a match where Jemimah Rodrigues’ Delhi Capitals suffered a defeat against Smriti Mandhana’s Royal Challengers Bengaluru, it was Mandhana who was observed as the first to approach and console a dejected Rodrigues. Such gestures underscore their ability to transcend competitive rivalries and prioritise their personal connection.
Contributions on the International Stage
The partnership between Mandhana and Rodrigues has been pivotal to India’s success on the international stage. Notably, their contributions were instrumental in India’s significant victory at the 2025 World Cup. During that tournament, Smriti Mandhana showcased her batting prowess, amassing an impressive 434 runs at an average of 54.25. Jemimah Rodrigues also played a crucial role, contributing 292 runs with a remarkable average of 58.40. Their consistent performances with the bat provided a strong foundation for the Indian team’s campaign.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 ICC Women’s World Cup
As the cricketing world turns its attention to the upcoming 2026 ICC Women’s World Cup, scheduled to take place in England this June, the formidable pairing of Mandhana and Rodrigues is set to once again represent India. Rodrigues expressed her enthusiasm and the team’s collective ambition for the tournament.
“Well, that’s the plan,” Rodrigues stated regarding their strategy for the T20 format. “We’ve got the 50-over one, and now it’s time to get the T20 one. I’m really looking forward to it and working as hard as possible because we know the responsibility is greater now, and so are the expectations.” This forward-looking perspective indicates a team that is not only aware of the heightened pressure but is also embracing it as a catalyst for improvement.
Rodrigues further elaborated on the team’s mindset: “At the same time, as a team, we’re just going to push and keep getting better.” This commitment to continuous development and a unified team effort suggests that India will be a formidable opponent in the upcoming T20 World Cup, with the experienced and deeply connected duo of Mandhana and Rodrigues at its core. Their on-field synergy, bolstered by their strong off-field friendship, is a significant asset for the Indian squad as they aim to add another world title to their impressive record.
