New Delhi: Indian cricket batter Jemimah Rodrigues has assumed a new off-field role by becoming Switzerland Tourism's Friendship Ambassador for India, even as she continues her rehabilitation from a hamstring injury. The official announcement was made in Bengaluru on October 15 during a ceremony attended by Switzerland Tourism CEO Martin Nydegger. Through this partnership, Rodrigues will highlight the European nation's diverse attractions across all four seasons.
Renowned for her vibrant personality and high energy, Rodrigues is set to showcase both renowned Swiss destinations and hidden gems, introducing Indian travelers to local cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and seasonal highlights. The promotional campaign is designed to inspire travelers from India to explore aspects of Switzerland that lie beyond conventional tourist hotspots.
Expressing enthusiasm for the role, Rodrigues remarked that representing India is deeply meaningful to her and that she always carries a piece of home wherever she travels. She added that she looks forward to meeting people, trying new activities, exploring diverse landscapes, and sharing those experiences with audiences back home.
This partnership coincides with the athlete's ongoing recovery following a major injury setback. Rodrigues has been sidelined since suffering a high-grade tear in her right hamstring on August 3 while competing for the Southern Brave in The Hundred. That injury prematurely ended her campaign in the tournament, where she had accumulated 143 runs across six innings with a strike rate of 131.19, which included consecutive Player of the Match awards.
The physical setback resulted in her missing several major fixtures for India, including the Women's Asia Cup and the Asian Games. She is also absent from the national team's ongoing T20I and ODI series against Zimbabwe, further prolonging her time away from competitive cricket.
Her prolonged absence leaves a notable gap in India's middle order, particularly given her tactical flexibility and capability to accelerate scoring rates when needed. Presently, Rodrigues is focused on her rehabilitation program, routinely posting updates on social media that feature intensive gym workouts and net sessions as she strives for a full recovery.
Rodrigues aims to regain complete fitness in time for India's scheduled tour of South Africa later in the year. Meanwhile, other players have stepped into the squad to seize their opportunities during the upcoming international fixtures.