In an exciting development for Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) fans worldwide, Indian batting sensation Jemimah Rodrigues has been officially retained by the Brisbane Heat for the upcoming 11th edition of the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) 2025.
Following a stellar season last summer, the 24-year-old right-hander is set to once again lead the Heat’s top order, aiming to convert last season’s near-miss into championship glory.
Jemimah Rodrigues’ Stellar Season with the Brisbane Heat
Rodrigues’ impact in the WBBL last year was undeniable. With 267 runs at an impressive strike rate of 139.06 and a superb average of 33.37 in 10 innings, including one half-century, she was the Heat’s second-highest run-scorer, after Grace Harris (277 runs) in 12 innings as Brisbane stormed through the season with a six-match winning streak. The team’s consistent performances saw them reach the finals for the second consecutive year, although ultimate success eluded them to the Melbourne Renegades.
Her blend of classical technique and innovative strokeplay brought a fresh dynamism to the Heat’s batting lineup. Time and again, she showcased composure under pressure, steering her team through challenging chases and setting formidable targets. Such performances have made her a fan favourite and a vital cog in the Heat’s ambitions for WBBL 11.
Jemimah Rodrigues’ Retention Amidst Stiff Competition
The retention of Rodrigues did not come without a tussle. The Melbourne Stars had expressed strong interest, using their third pick in the international player draft to attempt to lure the Indian star away. However, Brisbane Heat’s strategic use of their retention pick ensured Rodrigues remained in Queensland, much to the delight of supporters and teammates alike.
In a heartfelt message, Rodrigues expressed her enthusiasm for returning, “I’m super, super, super excited to be rejoining you all back in Brisbane”
Jemimah Rodrigues’ International Success
Rodrigues comes into the new season in sublime form, fresh off a career-best innings of 123 (101 balls) in a Tri-nation ODI series against South Africa on 7th May 2025. She was also awarded the Player of the Match. Her prowess on the international stage only adds to her value in the WBBL, where she pairs seamlessly with Brisbane captain Jess Jonassen, her teammate from the Women’s Premier League (WPL) in India.
Their partnership, both on and off the field, strengthens the Heat’s all-around capabilities. With their combined experience in global leagues, the Heat’s leadership core is well-equipped to mentor emerging talents and strategise for peak performance throughout the tournament.
Brisbane Heat’s Competitive WBBL 2025 Squad
Alongside Rodrigues, the Heat have also bolstered their squad with exciting talent such as West Indian allrounder Chinelle Henry, a powerhouse batter and medium pacer known for her blistering 18-ball half-century in the WPL. She will be making her maiden appearance in the WBBL. South African all-rounder Nadine de Klerk, already secured on a multi-year contract, further deepens the team’s balance.
With the current roster standing at eleven players, including stalwarts Jess Jonassen, Grace Harris, and rising stars like Georgia Redmayne, the Heat are shaping a formidable unit. One of the remaining 4 players will be picked after the T20 Spring Challenge, adding the final touches ahead of the WBBL 11.
Notably, Jemimah Rodrigues remains the only Indian player to be picked in the draft. The likes of Kanika Ahuja, Yastika Bhatia, Uma Chetry, Salonee Dangore, Amarpal Kaur Dhillon, Kashvee Gautam, Priya Mishra, Shikha Pandey, Shreyanka Patil, Niki Prasad, Pratika Rawal, Arundhati Reddy, Meghana Sabbineni, and Radha Yadav all of them have missed out on a WBBL gig for the 11th edition.
Rodrigues’ retention signals Brisbane Heat’s clear intent to challenge for the WBBL crown once again. Her combination of youthful aggression and technical finesse embodies the very spirit of the league’s evolution in women’s cricket, where international stars not only entertain but elevate the competition’s standard.
For the cricketing fraternity, seeing a young Indian talent thrive in Australia’s premier T20 tournament underscores the growing globalisation and cross-cultural exchange within women’s cricket.
I am Yash Tailor, and I believe work should be driven by passion. Therefore, after completing my Engineering, I chose to work in the Cricket industry, my passion. My goal is to reach a stage where I truly enjoy what I do and give my best to every task with energy and purpose.