On January 12, 2025, Jemimah Rodrigues reached a significant milestone in her cricketing career when she scored her maiden One Day International (ODI) century. This achievement not only marked a personal triumph for the 24-year-old but also played a crucial role in propelling India to their highest-ever ODI total of 370/5 in a match against Ireland at Rajkot. While the century itself was monumental, it was the manner in which Rodrigues celebrated her accomplishment that captured the hearts of fans around the world.
The Century and Its Celebration
Jemimah Rodrigues’ century was scored off just 91 balls, featuring a blistering 12 boundaries. Her innings was a mixture of patience, skill, and calculated aggression, displaying both her maturity and versatility as a cricketer. When she reached the three-figure mark, the Indian crowd erupted with joy, and Rodrigues, overcome with emotion, celebrated in her signature style. She removed her helmet and raised her bat to the heavens, before mimicking a guitar strum with her bat, a gesture that quickly became symbolic of her infectious energy and passion for the game. This unique celebration, which she has previously used for key milestones, was a personal trademark, representing her jubilation and the fulfillment of a long-awaited goal.
A Moment of Long-Awaited Joy
This century held a special place for Rodrigues, who had been waiting for this moment for a long time. Having been part of the Indian women’s cricket team for several years, her previous near-century performances had always left her with a sense of unfinished business. Finally breaking that barrier in such an important match brought immense relief and satisfaction. Reflecting on her innings, she expressed, “Feels great, it was a long-awaited one, and I’m glad I could do it for the team today.” Her words underscored the significance of the moment, not only for herself but also for her team and the country.
The emotion behind her celebration was also linked to her journey. Rodrigues has often been known for her calm demeanor, but this century represented years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. The fact that she celebrated in such an expressive and exuberant way only emphasized the joy she felt in finally achieving this milestone.