Mumbai: Bollywood actresses Alia Bhatt and Sharvari have extended their support and admiration to Indian cricketers Jemimah Rodrigues and Shafali Verma, praising their performances and contribution to women’s cricket as Team India prepares for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026.
Alia lauded Jemimah for her match-winning innings against Australia in the semi-final of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025, calling it an inspiration for young girls across the country.
“Jemimah, the world knows about your innings against Australia. That knock was beyond spectacular. I’m sure you inspired countless young girls that day. Just keep being yourself, and we’ll keep winning too,” Alia said.
Sharvari highlighted Jemimah’s humility and team-first attitude, recalling how the batter remained focused on the match rather than celebrating her personal milestone.
“The most special moment for me was when you didn’t celebrate your milestone and kept going. You celebrated only after India won. That showed incredible maturity and commitment,” Sharvari said.
Responding to the actresses’ messages, Jemimah expressed gratitude and said that women inspiring one another across different professions is a powerful force.
“It’s always special when other women feel inspired and empowered. You have inspired me as much as I may have inspired others. Let’s continue spreading hope and positivity,” she said.
Alia also praised Shafali Verma’s remarkable journey, recalling how the young cricketer burst onto the international scene at just 15 years of age.
“Today, you are one of India’s most loved cricketers. Take a moment to remember the young girl who dedicated herself to the game and made her breakthrough at such a young age. Your contribution to women’s cricket is inspiring a whole generation,” Alia said.
Sharvari commended Shafali’s performance in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 final, describing it as one of the most inspiring displays she had witnessed.
“For me, your performance after rejoining the team and delivering when it mattered most was truly special. Thank you for inspiring so many people,” she added.
Shafali thanked both actresses for their encouraging words and revealed that Alia Bhatt is among her favourite Bollywood stars.
“Thank you for this sweet message. Alia Bhatt is one of my favourite actresses, so your words mean a lot to me. I will always remember this,” Shafali said.
India will next face arch-rivals Pakistan women’s national cricket team in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 on June 14, with the much-anticipated clash set to be broadcast on JioHotstar and Star Sports Network.
With inputs from IANS