The Hundred’s pause puts Jemimah Rodrigues and women’s game on hold

Instead, the coronavirus pandemic took hold, postponing the new format for 12 months.

The impact on women’s cricket in particular, will be keenly felt, given The Hundred intended to replace the Kia Super League. The competition was set to showcase the talent on offer within the women’s game, something Jemimah Rodrigues knows all too well.

“There were hardly any girls playing cricket when I started; I was so inspired when I first saw women’s cricket on television,” says the India international and former Yorkshire Diamonds player.

“By allowing young players, particularly girls, to watch the sport on television we can promote more participation in the game.

“As a young player I always wanted to practice. The more young players can see how much women’s cricket has developed, and how the competition has progressed, the more they will be inspired to participate.”

Rodrigues, one of the most exciting up-and-coming talents in women’s cricket today, had a successful maiden season in England finishing as the second highest runscorer in the Kia Super League.

“The Kia Super League was a great tournament as it gave us exposure to T20 cricket, which is a format we play regularly at international level,” said the right-handed bat from Mumbai.

“Playing with the best players in the world is what every player enjoys. The introduction of The Hundred will give everyone, including international players, a chance to test themselves and develop as players.”

On her time playing in England, Rodrigues reflected that she loved batting in this country. “If you watch the ball well, you will enjoy batting here,” added Rodrigues who also plays for the Supernovas in the IPL and has scored 372 runs in 16 ODIs for her country.

“Yorkshire was a beautiful place where I felt very included and very comfortable. I didn’t feel like a foreign player coming in, the team were so sweet and made me feel very welcome.”

On the back of last season’s performances, Rodrigues was hoping for an opportunity to build on her success with the Northern Superchargers The Hundred. “It’s a really exciting and fun initiative that encourages you to go out and play from the first ball.”

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