New Delhi: Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh and current opener Shafali Verma were among members of the cricket fraternity who paid rich tributes to Harmanpreet Kaur after she stepped down as captain of the Indian women’s team across all formats Tuesday.
India’s only women’s World Cup-winning captain, Harmanpreet stepped down from the leadership role in all three formats, saying she had done her duty as leader and was now “ready to play for the love of the game again”.
Yuvraj, who like Harmanpreet comes from Punjab, posted an Instagram story with a photo of her holding the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup trophy.
“You gave Indian cricket everything as captain, Harman. The responsibility, the pressure, the highs and the lows, you carried it all with pride. Well done for everything you’ve done for the team and for the nation,” he wrote on Instagram.
Shafali, who made her India debut under Harmanpreet, wrote a personal note on Instagram.
“Since the day I made my debut, you’ve always been there for me, on and off the field. From guiding me through the early days to standing by me through everything, I’ve always known I could count on you,” she wrote.
“Harman di, your contribution to Indian women’s cricket is something that will always be remembered. You’ve led us through some incredible moments and helped shape the team we are today. Thank you for everything, captain.”
The 37-year-old Harmanpreet’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.
Mandhana, who has been vocal about her ambitions to lead the ‘Women in Blue’, is the front-runner to take over as the next captain.
BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla hailed Harmanpreet’s leadership, calling her a “true inspiration” for the youngsters.
“Harmanpreet Kaur has been a true inspiration for Indian women’s cricket. As captain, she led India to the historic 2025 Women’s World Cup title and inspired countless young girls across the country to take up cricket and pursue their dreams,” Shukla wrote on ‘X’.
“As she steps down as captain, wishing Harmanpreet Kaur the very best for the journey ahead.”
Indian Premier League teams Punjab Kings, Mumbai Indians, and UP Warriorz and also paid their tributes on ‘X’.
“A legacy built on courage and class! Thank you, Skipper!,” wrote Punjab Kings.
“Led from the front. Fought with heart. Inspired a generation. Thank you for the legacy, Kaptaan Kaur,” wrote Mumbai Indians, whom Harmanpreet led to two Women’s Premier League (WPL) titles in 2023 and 2025.
“A tenure that inspired young girls to believe in their dreams,” wrote UP Warriorz.
Harmanpreet had led India to their first Women’s ODI World Cup title in November 2025 and also the to Asian Games gold last month. She will continue to play for India.
