25 January,2018 03:09 PM IST | Mumbai | Subodh Mayure
Jemimah Rodrigues
Jemimah Rodrigues, 17, the youngest member of the Indian women's team, passed her first test as it were on Tuesday. Addressing the media before departing for the limited overs series tour to South Africa, Mumbai's Jemimah didn't provide a trace of anxiety and even managed to be cheerful behind the microphone at the MCA-Bandra Kurla Complex ground. "Yes, I am a bit nervous, but I am really looking forward to the South Africa tour. Everybody has supported me really well over here. They do not make me feel like I am a new girl and the youngest in the team," said Jemimah before leaving for South Africa.
The Mumbai all-rounder, who earned her place in the Indian team on the basis of her consistent performances in the under-19 tournament (1013 runs and 19 wickets with her off-spin) along with two half centuries against Bangladesh 'A' and in the Challenger Trophy, said she takes inspiration from her idol Indian women's team skipper Mithali Raj. When asked how the experience was when she first met the experienced players like Mithali and Jhulan Goswami, Jemimah said: "I was very nervous because I really looked up to them. Mithali is my idol in women's cricket and seeing them work so hard in the nets was inspiring for me. They are amazing with their commitment and determination."
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The Indian team members were fortunate to meet batting icon Sachin Tendulkar at their camp recently. "Meeting Sachin sir was an awe moment for each of us. He made us very comfortable and answered our questions," said Jemimah.
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