The decision to drop Jemimah Rodrigues against England sparked controversy. Former pacer Varun Aaron called it a turning point. Speaking on Star Sports, Aaron praised coach Amol Muzumdar. He described the move as a “great decision” that reignited Rodrigues’ hunger and inspired her comeback.
Rodrigues answered the critics with a match-winning 127 against Australia*, helping India chase 339 runs to reach the World Cup final. Batting at number three, she combined aggression with composure and stayed till the end, guiding India home.
Aaron Praises Muzumdar’s Bold Call
Aaron said Muzumdar understood Rodrigues’ personality and knew that a short break could awaken her competitive edge.
“Great move by Amol Muzumdar because sometimes, as a coach, you need to identify who are these players who just need that little needle, who just need that little poke to ignite that fire, and that’s what he did with Jemi,” said Aaron.
Fans had earlier criticized Muzumdar for benching Rodrigues in the England match. Yet, Aaron noted that the decision gave her a reason to refocus and come back stronger.
Rodrigues’ Comeback Ignites India’s Campaign
Rodrigues returned in top form against New Zealand, smashing 76 off quick time* after Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal’s partnership. Against Australia, she built the innings after Shafali Verma’s early wicket and carried India to victory with fearless strokeplay.
Aaron explained that the setback helped Rodrigues clear her mind and channel her drive into purposeful aggression.
“After that drop, she is really focused, zoned in. I think all that anxiety would have made place for pure aggression, because sometimes when you are playing a World Cup, when you were dropped from the previous World Cup, you just want to prove a point so badly,” explained Aaron.
India Eyes the Trophy
Rodrigues’ form has lifted India’s morale ahead of the World Cup final against South Africa at DY Patil Stadium. She turned her setback into a record-breaking performance through determination, belief, and smart coaching.
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