Smriti Mandhana appointed as India Women’s all-format captain

Following the conclusion of Harmanpreet Kaur’s tenure on Tuesday, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) officially named Smriti Mandhana as the new captain of the Indian women’s cricket team. A pivotal player of the national side for over a decade, Mandhana has been integral to the squad’s growth across all formats.

Her impressive leadership credentials include guiding Royal Challengers Bengaluru to Women’s Premier League titles in 2024 and 2026, alongside prior interim leadership experience in 18 T20Is and 4 ODIs.

Expressing her gratitude upon taking the helm, Smriti Mandhana said;

“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.”

“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. 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,” Smriti said.

Top board officials welcomed the appointment, emphasising Mandhana’s wealth of experience and proven tactical acumen as vital assets for the team’s upcoming challenges.

Adding to the praise, BCCI Honorary Secretary Devajit Saikia stated:

“Congratulations to Smriti on this important responsibility. She has grown into one of the most experienced players in the Indian team and has been part of some very important moments in the journey of Indian women’s cricket. She understands what it means to represent India and I am confident that she will bring that understanding to her role as captain. 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. I wish her and the team every success in the journey ahead and look forward to seeing Indian Cricket continue to progress under her leadership.”

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