Veteran actor Sunil Shetty has publicly lauded cricketer Jemimah Rodrigues for her support of fellow athlete Smriti Mandhana. Rodrigues reportedly made the decision to skip the remaining session of the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) to be by Mandhana’s side during a challenging time.
Shetty expressed his admiration on X (formerly Twitter), sharing an article about Rodrigues’s choice. He stated his heart felt “full” upon reading it, highlighting the “quiet solidarity” shown.
Bumped into this article first thing in the morning and my heart felt full.
Jemimah leaving the WBBL to be by Smriti’s side. No big statements, just quiet solidarity.This is what real teammates do.
Simple. Straight. Genuine pic.twitter.com/dL04daGjSu— Suniel Shetty (@SunielVShetty) November 28, 2025
The commendation comes amidst ongoing controversy surrounding the postponed wedding of Smriti Mandhana and music composer Palash Muchhal. The ceremony, initially set for November 23, was officially delayed due to Mandhana’s father’s ill health.
However, a different narrative has emerged in the media. Allegations of flirting chats involving Muchhal and a woman named Mary D’Costa have circulated. Muchhal’s name has also been linked to choreographer Nandika, although friends of both women have issued clarifications.
Neither Mandhana nor Muchhal has made a public statement regarding the allegations. Mandhana has reportedly removed mehndi and haldi function videos from her Instagram account, with her friends also deleting related photos and videos.
Palash Muchhal’s mother, Amita Muchhal, spoke to Hindustan Times, asserting that both Smriti and Palash are distressed. She stated that her son had always dreamt of bringing his bride home and expressed confidence that the wedding “will happen soon.”
Mandhana’s father has since been discharged from the hospital. Muchhal was also hospitalized due to a viral infection but has since been released.