(): To make up for “lack of strength”, India opener Jemimah Rodrigues is working on increasing her bat speed, which, she hopes, will aid in hitting big shots in the upcoming Women’s T20 World Cup.
The lively 19-year-old is also striving to hone her backfoot skills ahead of the marquee event, starting in Australia next month.
“I’m working more on my back foot, developing my back foot more and trying to increase my bat speed. Because looking at my size, you can make out I don’t have that much strength to hit the sixes ... But I’ve been working on that for quite some time,” said Jemimah in a Road To The T20 World Cup podcast.
Since making her international debut in 2018, she has consistently put in commendable performances to established herself as a key member of the team.
India take on defending champions Australia in the opening game of the tournament in Sydney on February 21, and the youngster believes her side will have to be mentally strong against the hosts.
“I think when it comes to Australia, you got to be the best or you can’t play. That’s the kind of team they are. My favourite team to play against is also Australia. It’s more of a mind game than just skills (when you play them on the field),” Jemimah said.
Jemimah, who will be playing her first World Cup, is looking forward to play in the final of the tournament, which will mark an important milestone in her life.
“I can’t put it in words, how important it will be for me to be a part of the Indian team that plays in a World Cup final. It’s quite exciting. I’m really looking forward to it,” she said.