New Delhi: Star batter Smriti Mandhana was Tuesday appointed the captain of the Indian women’s cricket team, succeeding Harmanpreet Kaur and ushering in a new leadership era for the side.
Mandhana, one of the most experienced players in the Indian team, has been handed the responsibility after being part of the national setup since 2013. She has previously led India in 18 T20Is and four ODIs.
The 29-year-old has also enjoyed considerable success as a leader in domestic and franchise cricket, most notably guiding Royal Challengers Bengaluru to Women’s Premier League titles in 2024 and 2026.
A dawn of a new era ✨
Smriti Mandhana takes charge as the Captain of the Indian Women’s cricket team 🇮🇳
Go well, Captain 🫡
More details ▶️ https://t.co/tbLb4jOiCn
#TeamIndia | @mandhana_smriti https://t.co/27AxmrUhKt
— BCCI (@BCCI) October 6, 2026
“Being 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,” Mandhana said in a BCCI release.
She also acknowledged Harmanpreet’s contribution during her tenure as captain.
“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,” she said.
Mandhana said she understood the responsibility that came with the new role and would look to work with the team to take Indian cricket forward.
BCCI president Mithun Manhas congratulated Mandhana on her appointment, saying her experience and understanding of the game would be valuable in the new role.
“The BCCI has full confidence in Smriti and I am sure she will approach this role with the same commitment and professionalism that she has shown throughout her career,” Manhas said.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia also backed Mandhana to handle the responsibility, pointing to her experience and success with RCB in the WPL.
“Leading India is a significant responsibility, but Smriti has the experience and temperament to take it on. Her success as captain of Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the Women’s Premier League is another example of her leadership qualities,” Saikia said.
Mandhana’s appointment comes as the Indian women’s team enters a new phase following Harmanpreet’s tenure at the helm.
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