Smriti Mandhana succeeded Harmanpreet Kaur as the new all-format captain of the Indian women’s cricket team on Tuesday (October 6). Harmanpreet, who led India to a gold medal at the Asian Games 2026, stepped down as India’s all-format captain on Tuesday morning, and in the evening, the BCCI confirmed Smriti’s appointment as the new captain.
After succeeding Harmanpreet as skipper, Mandhana hailed her contribution as India captain and stated that she led the Indian team with great commitment and has been an important part of the team’s journey.
“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,” Mandhana was quoted as saying by the BCCI in a release.
Mandhana, who will make her full-time debut as India captain on October 16 in Raipur against Zimbabwe during a T20I match, stated that getting the opportunity to captain India is a special honour for her and that she will value it deeply.
“To be 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. I am grateful to the BCCI, the selectors, my teammates and everyone who has supported me throughout my journey and for the trust they have placed in me,” Mandhana said.
According to Smriti, who is the highest run-scorer in women’s cricket, she understands what it means to captain India and is looking forward to giving her best to take Indian cricket forward.
“I understand the responsibility that comes with this role and look forward to working with the team, learning along the way and giving my best to take Indian Cricket forward,” Mandhana added.
Mandhana has captained India in multiple ODI and T20I matches in the past, but on October 16, she will lead the side for the first time as full-time captain. India will play three T20Is and three ODIs against Zimbabwe from October 16 to 28. While the T20Is are scheduled in Raipur, Vadodara will host the three ODIs on October 23, 25 and 28, respectively.
