Smriti Mandhana replaces Harmanpreet Kaur as the captain of the Indian women’s team

Smriti Mandhana has been named the new captain of the Indian women’s cricket team, taking over from Harmanpreet Kaur as BCCI ushers in a new phase for the side. earlier in the day Harmanpreet stepped down as Indian captain across all formats

Mandhana will take charge of India’s white-ball teams having already captained them in 18 T20Is and four ODIs. The 29-year-old has been a mainstay of the Indian team since her international debut in 2013 and now takes on the biggest leadership role of her career.

He also brings a strong record as a captain in franchise cricket. Mandhana led Royal Challengers Bengaluru to the Women’s Premier League titles in 2024 and 2026, underscoring her leadership.

Mandhana said it was a special honor to lead India and thanked the BCCI, the selectors and her teammates for entrusting her with the responsibility.

“To be given the responsibility of leading India is a very special honour. Representing India has always meant a lot to me and to now have the opportunity to lead the team is something I will cherish deeply,” said Mandhana.

“I am thankful to the BCCI, the selectors, my teammates and everyone who has supported me on my journey and the faith they have placed in me.

“I would also like to acknowledge Harmanpreet and the contribution she has made as captain over the years. She has led the team with great commitment and has been an important part of our journey.”

“I understand the responsibility that comes with this role and look forward to working with the team, learning and taking Indian Cricket forward.”

BCCI president Mithun Manhas backed Mandhana to handle the responsibility, pointing to her experience with the Indian team and her leadership skills.

“Congratulations to Smriti for being appointed to lead the Indian women’s cricket team. She has been an important part of Indian cricket for many years and has consistently demonstrated the qualities needed to lead from the front,” said Manhas.

“Her experience and understanding of the game will be valuable as she takes on this responsibility.”

BCCI Honorary Secretary Devajit Saikia also pointed to Mandhana’s success with RCB in the WPL as proof of her leadership.

“She has grown into one of the most experienced players in the Indian team and has been part of some very important moments in the journey of Indian women’s cricket. She understands what it means to represent India and I am confident that she will bring that understanding to her role as captain,” Saikia said.

“Leading India is a big responsibility, but Smriti has the experience and temperament to take it on. Her success as captain of Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the Women’s Premier League is another example of her leadership qualities.”

Mandhana’s first full-time stint as India’s white-ball captain comes after years as one of the team’s most reliable batsmen. She will now be at the center of India’s next chapter and will be responsible for leading the team on the field as well as playing a key role with the bat.

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