Harmanpreet Kaur has stepped down as the captain of the Indian women’s cricket team across all formats, bringing an end to a significant leadership era for Indian cricket. Her time as captain was filled with memorable performances, important victories and moments that helped raise the profile of women’s cricket in the country.
Harmanpreet took on the responsibility of leading India during a period when expectations around the women’s team were growing rapidly. Under her leadership, India developed into a competitive side capable of challenging the best teams in the world. Her aggressive approach, experience and ability to handle pressure made her one of the most recognisable leaders in women’s cricket.
One of the defining moments of Harmanpreet’s captaincy came during the 2017 Women’s World Cup, when she produced a sensational unbeaten 171 against Australia in the semi-final. The innings remains one of the most iconic performances in Indian women’s cricket and helped inspire a new generation of fans and players.
Now, with Harmanpreet stepping away from the captaincy, Indian cricket is preparing for a new leadership phase. And one name has naturally moved to the centre of the discussion — Smriti Mandhana.
Smriti Mandhana Could Be India’s Next Captain
Mandhana has already established herself as one of the biggest names in Indian women’s cricket. Known for her elegant batting and consistency at the top of the order, the left-handed opener has been an important part of India’s plans across formats.
But in recent years, Mandhana has also shown that she has the qualities required to lead a team.
Her leadership experience with Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the Women’s Premier League has been particularly important. Mandhana led RCB to the WPL title in 2024 and repeated that success in 2026, giving her two championship-winning campaigns as captain.
Winning one tournament can be difficult enough, but doing it twice shows that Mandhana has been able to build a team capable of handling pressure and performing when it matters most.
Her WPL experience could now prove extremely valuable if she is given the responsibility of leading India.
From Star Batter to Potential Leader
Mandhana has spent years as one of the faces of Indian women’s cricket. She has played against the strongest international teams, experienced major tournaments and dealt with the expectations that come with being one of India’s most popular cricketers.
Taking over as captain, however, would bring an entirely different level of responsibility.
As captain, Mandhana would have to manage the team on the field while also continuing to perform with the bat. She would be expected to make important tactical decisions, handle different personalities in the dressing room and guide younger players through difficult situations.
Her experience with RCB suggests that she is ready for that challenge.
Mandhana has also seen how quickly a team can change when confidence and belief come together. Her WPL success could give her the experience needed to understand how to build a winning environment and keep players focused during pressure situations.
A New Chapter for Indian Women’s Cricket
The end of Harmanpreet’s captaincy does not mean the end of her contribution to the Indian team. She is expected to continue as a player, meaning her experience will remain an important asset for the side.
That could also make the transition easier for whoever takes over the captaincy. A younger leadership group can benefit enormously from having an experienced player like Harmanpreet around the team.
For Mandhana, meanwhile, the opportunity would represent one of the biggest responsibilities of her career.
At 29, she has already accumulated years of international experience and has been part of India’s biggest campaigns. She knows the pressure that comes with representing the country and has also experienced the demands of franchise captaincy.
If selected, she would inherit a team with plenty of talent but also high expectations.
Can Mandhana Carry India Forward?
The biggest challenge for Mandhana would be maintaining the progress made during Harmanpreet’s leadership while also creating her own identity as captain.
Indian women’s cricket has developed significantly over the last decade. The team now has experienced players, exciting young talent and greater exposure through competitions such as the Women’s Premier League.
Mandhana would have to bring all of those elements together.
Her leadership style could also bring a different approach. While Harmanpreet was known for her aggressive personality and strong presence on the field, Mandhana has often carried herself with a calmer style. That contrast could give India a fresh leadership identity.
At the same time, the pressure will be immense. Fans will expect results, particularly in major ICC tournaments, while Mandhana will also have to maintain her own high standards with the bat.
Harmanpreet Leaves Behind a Strong Legacy
Whatever happens next, Harmanpreet Kaur’s contribution as India’s captain will remain an important part of the team’s history.
She led India through some of the most competitive years in women’s cricket and became a symbol of the team’s growing ambition. Her performances, particularly in major tournaments, helped establish her as one of India’s most influential wome
