India batter Jemimah Rodrigues has paid a heartfelt tribute to her roots by gifting her childhood coach Prashant Shetty a brand-new SUV, in a gesture that reflects both gratitude and a long-standing bond.
Rodrigues, one of the standout performers in India’s victorious 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup campaign, has never been far removed from the people who shaped her early journey. At the centre of that journey is Shetty, who has coached her since she was just nine years old and played a crucial role in nurturing her talent during her formative years in Mumbai.
Their association began at the MIG Cricket Club, where a young Rodrigues walked in with her father, hoping to pursue cricket seriously. At the time, the academy primarily catered to boys, but Shetty saw something special in her early on. Speaking about that moment, he had said, “After seeing a glimpse of her talent, I decided to enrol her in our academy. The problem was that MIG Club had only a boys’ academy at that time. I spoke to the club officials… allowing her to practise here may not benefit our club, but it will benefit that girl.” His belief not only opened the door for Rodrigues but also laid the foundation for her cricketing career.
Over the years, Shetty has remained a constant presence in her development, guiding her through different stages of her journey — from age-group cricket to the international arena. Now based in Bandra, he runs the ‘Kkalpavriksha Cricket Clinic’, where he continues to mentor young cricketers. Despite her busy international schedule, Rodrigues still trains under him, most recently attending a practice session just days before the news of her gesture emerged.
Shetty’s coaching influence extends beyond Rodrigues. He has worked with several prominent cricketers, including Prithvi Shaw, and continues to contribute to the domestic circuit as the head coach of the Thane Skyrisers in the Mumbai Cricket Association’s women’s T20 league. His role as a mentor has been defined not just by technical guidance, but also by his ability to identify and back talent early — something that proved crucial in Rodrigues’ case.
Rodrigues’ gesture comes at a time when she is preparing for another important phase in her career. She is set to attend a preparatory camp at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru from May 10 to 16, before travelling with the Indian team to England for a three-match T20I series starting May 28. The tour will serve as a key build-up to the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, which begins in June.
Her recent performances have further cemented her place in the side. During the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup, she played a pivotal role in India’s title-winning run, including an unbeaten 76 against New Zealand women’s national cricket team and a match-winning 127 not out against Australia women’s national cricket team in the semifinal. These innings highlighted her ability to deliver in high-pressure situations and reinforced her value as a middle-order mainstay.
While her achievements on the field continue to grow, this gesture offers a glimpse into the person behind the cricketer. As she prepares for the challenges ahead, the gesture stands as a simple yet meaningful acknowledgment of the journey and the people who made it possible.
Source: Times Of India
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