Smriti Mandhana Named India Women’s Captain After Harmanpreet Kaur Steps Down

In a leadership overhaul for Indian women’s cricket, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday appointed opener Smriti Mandhana as the new captain of the Indian women’s team across all formats. The announcement came hours after long-serving skipper Harmanpreet Kaur stepped down from the role.

Harmanpreet, 37, who had led the side for nearly a decade, announced her decision to relinquish the captaincy earlier in the day following a review meeting in Guwahati. The meeting was attended by BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia, head coach Amol Muzumdar and Mandhana. Harmanpreet will continue to play for India as a senior member of the team.

Under Harmanpreet’s leadership, India won their first-ever Women’s ODI World Cup title on home soil in 2025, secured multiple Asia Cup titles and claimed Asian Games gold medals, including the most recent triumph at the Aichi-Nagoya Games.

Experienced deputy takes charge

Mandhana, who has been part of the Indian team since her debut in 2013, served as vice-captain for much of Harmanpreet’s tenure. She has previously led India in 18 T20Is and four ODIs. The left-handed batter has also enjoyed success as captain of Royal Challengers Bengaluru, guiding the side to Women’s Premier League titles in 2024 and 2026.

In a statement released by the BCCI, Mandhana described the appointment as “a very special honour.”

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

“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 along the way and giving my best to take Indian cricket forward.”

First assignment

Mandhana’s first series as full-time captain will be the upcoming limited-overs series against Zimbabwe. The three-match T20I series begins in Raipur on October 16, followed by three ODIs.

The change of leadership marks a new phase for the Indian women’s team as it prepares for the inaugural Women’s Champions Trophy in 2027, the T20 World Cup and the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028.