India Women’s Cricket Enters a New Era After Harmanpreet’s Captaincy Exit

Harmanpreet Kaur has stepped down as captain of the India women’s cricket team across all three formats, bringing an end to a long and significant leadership chapter. The 37-year-old, who recently guided India to success in the Asia Cup and Asian Games, will continue to represent the team as a player. Vice-captain Smriti Mandhana is expected to take over the leadership responsibilities. The change reportedly followed discussions at a BCCI review meeting held in Guwahati, attended by Harmanpreet, Mandhana and head coach Amol Muzumdar under the leadership of BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia. With the 2028 T20 World Cup and Olympics in focus, the board is understood to have considered a transition to a new captain.

Harmanpreet described the decision as a difficult one, saying her captaincy journey had been filled with memories, emotions, sacrifices and unforgettable experiences. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead India and indicated that while her chapter as captain has ended, her journey as a player will continue. Harmanpreet led India in five Tests, 51 ODIs and 155 T20Is. Under her leadership, India won the prestigious ODI World Cup last year and also became champions at the Asian Games for a second consecutive time, further cementing her place as one of the most influential captains in Indian women’s cricket.