‘You gave everything to Indian cricket’: Yuvraj, Shafali, Dhawan pay tribute after Harmanpreet Kaur steps down as captain

Harmanpreet Kaur. (PTI Photo) Harmanpreet Kaur may have stepped down as captain, but her impact on Indian women’s cricket could not be overlooked as tributes poured in from across the cricketing fraternity on Tuesday.India’s only World Cup-winning Women’s World Cup captain has announced her decision to step down as captain in all three formats, ending a tenure in charge that saw India lift its first Women’s World Cup title and Asian Games gold.Among those who paid tributes were former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh, current opener Shafali Verma and former India opener Shikhar Dhawan who took to Instagram to appreciate Harmanpreet’s contribution.

“You gave everything to Indian cricket”: Yuvraj

Yuvraj, who like Harmanpreet hails from Punjab, shared a picture of the 37-year-old holding the 2025 Women’s World Cup trophy.“As a captain you have given everything to Indian cricket Harman. The responsibility, the pressure, the ups and downs, you have carried it all with pride. Well done for all you have done for the team and for the nation,” Yuvraj wrote.

Shafali recalls Harmanpreet’s support

Shafali, who made her India debut under Harmanpreet, shared a more personal message for her former captain.“From the day I made my debut, you have always been there for me, on and off the field. From guiding me through the beginnings to standing by me through everything, I always knew I could count on you, Harman di, your contribution to Indian women’s cricket is something we will always remember. You have guided us through incredible moments and helped shape the team we are today.”

Dhawan welcomes Harmanpreet’s legacy

Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan also joined the tribute and highlighted Harmanpreet’s impact on Indian cricket.“Leadership is never just about the title, it’s about the impact you leave behind. Harmanpreet, you have given Indian cricket a lot to be proud of. We wish you all the best in whatever lies ahead!” Dhawan posted on Instagram.

Harmanpreet retires after a historic run

Harmanpreet’s decision came after BCCI’s review meeting in Guwahati to assess the recent trajectory of the women’s team. The meeting was presided over by BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia and was attended by Harmanpreet, vice-captain Smriti Mandhana and head coach Amol Muzumdar. Harmanpreet said she has fulfilled her duty as captain and is now ready to “play again for the love of the game”. She will continue to represent India as a player.Harmanpreet steps down from the leadership role after overseeing two landmark achievements: India’s first Women’s World Cup title in November 2025 and last month’s Asian Games gold.