In a deeply moving post-match press conference, Indian cricket’s newest World Cup sensation, Jemimah Rodrigues, broke down while sharing the profound emotional challenges she faced leading up to her remarkable performance. Her unbeaten 127 runs off 134 balls not only secured a historic five-wicket victory for India against Australia in the ICC Women’s World Cup semifinal in Navi Mumbai but also stood as a testament to her incredible mental strength.
Rodrigues candidly revealed the depth of her struggle with anxiety and self-doubt in the weeks before the semifinal, admitting that she cried almost every single day leading up to matches. Her vulnerability resonated deeply with many.
“I’ll be very vulnerable here because I know someone watching might be going through the same thing,” Jemimah began, her voice trembling with emotion. “I was going through a lot of anxiety at the start of the tournament. I used to call my mom and cry the entire time — because when you’re going through anxiety, you just feel numb.”
The tournament had started roughly for Rodrigues, including two ducks and even being dropped for a match against England, which severely shook her confidence. However, she credited the unwavering support of her family, close friends, and her strong faith for helping her navigate through this difficult period.
“My mum, dad, and friends like Arundhati and Radha were always there for me. I’ve cried in front of Arundhati almost every day. Even when she didn’t say much, her presence meant everything. I’m so blessed to have friends I can call family. And it’s okay to ask for help,” she emphasized, highlighting the importance of seeking support.
Rodrigues also found immense strength and encouragement in her Christian faith during those trying times. “Reading the Bible encouraged me. It says, ‘Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.’ And today joy came — but I’m still weeping,” she shared, smiling through her tears.
When asked to rate her extraordinary innings, Jemimah humbly stated that her focus was never on personal milestones. “I didn’t play for my 100 or to prove a point at No. 3. I just played to make sure India won. When you do it for the team, God favors you.”
Her courageous story of faith, friendship, and resilience transformed the post-match press conference into one of the most emotional and inspiring moments in Indian cricket history. It revealed that behind one of the greatest World Cup knocks ever stood a young woman who, despite her internal battles, simply refused to give up, emerging victorious against both her opponents and her own doubts.