India women’s cricket captain Harmanpreet Kaur has stepped down from the leadership role across all formats, bringing an end to a tenure that spanned several years at the helm of the national side.
The 36-year-old announced her decision on social media, stating that relinquishing the captaincy was not an easy choice given the memories and emotions attached to leading the team.
Decision Follows BCCI Review Meeting
According to Indian media reports, the announcement came in the wake of a review meeting held by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in Guwahati. The meeting is understood to have assessed the team’s recent performances and charted a way forward for the women’s programme.
Harmanpreet, however, will continue to represent India as a player after giving up the captaincy, ensuring her experience remains available to the side during its next phase of transition.
Smriti Mandhana Emerges as Likely Successor
Reports suggest that vice-captain Smriti Mandhana, long regarded as one of the team’s most consistent performers, could be considered as Harmanpreet’s successor. Mandhana has frequently deputised in Harmanpreet’s absence and is widely viewed as the natural candidate to take over the reins.
- Harmanpreet Kaur steps down as captain in all formats
- Announcement follows a BCCI review meeting in Guwahati
- She will remain available for selection as a player
- Smriti Mandhana is tipped as the likely replacement
A Tenure Marked by Milestones
Harmanpreet took charge of the T20I side in 2016 and later assumed leadership across formats, guiding India through a period that included a memorable run to the final of the 2017 ODI World Cup and a historic gold medal at the 2022 Asian Games. Her tenure also saw India reach the semifinals of the 2023 T20 World Cup on home soil.
Her departure signals the start of a new chapter for Indian women’s cricket, with the BCCI expected to formalise the succession plan in the coming weeks.
