Smriti Mandhana appointed Indian women's cricket team captain, succeeding Harmanpreet Kaur

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has appointed Smriti Mandhana as captain of the Indian women’s cricket team, replacing Harmanpreet Kaur.

India's only World Cup-winning women's cricket captain Harmanpreet Kaur on Tuesday stepped down from her position in all three formats, saying that she has done her duty as leader and is now "ready to play for the love of the game again."

Also Read: Harmanpreet Kaur steps down as India women's cricket team captain after World Cup, Asian Games glory


The 37-year-old's announcement came after a BCCI review meeting in Guwahati to evaluate the team's trajectory in the past few months. Chaired by BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia, the meeting was attended by Harmanpreet, vice-captain Smriti Mandhana and head coach Amol Muzumdar.

"The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announces the appointment of Smriti Mandhana as the captain of the Indian Women’s Cricket Team," the BCCI said on their website.

"Smriti has been one of the leading figures in Indian women's cricket over the years and has played a key role in the team's progress across formats. An experienced international cricketer, she has also demonstrated her leadership qualities in domestic and franchise cricket, most recently leading Royal Challengers Bengaluru to the Women's Premier League titles in 2024 and 2026."

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"Having been part of the Indian team since 2013, Smriti brings considerable experience into the role. She will now take on the responsibility of leading the side, with the team entering a new phase and continuing to build on the progress made in recent years," the board added.

THE DEPUTY STEPS UP

Mandhana, who was Kaur's vice-captain, has previously captained India in 18 T20Is and four ODIs.

The 30-year-old has played nine tests, 120 ODIs and 179 T20Is since making her international debut in 2013. She has also captained Royal Challengers Bengaluru to two Women's Premier League titles.

"To be given the responsibility of leading India is a very special honour... the opportunity to lead the team is something I will value deeply," Mandhana said in a statement.

"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."