The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed the development in a statement. Smriti Mandhana has been appointed as India’s new women’s cricket captain after Harmanpreet Kaur stepped down from her role in all formats on Tuesday. As captain, Mandhana’s most notable achievement is leading Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to two Women’s Premier League (WPL) titles.
Mandhana, 30, is the highest-ever run-scorer in women’s international cricket, and has served as India’s vice-captain across formats for several years.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announces the appointment of Smriti Mandhana as the captain of the Indian Women’s Cricket Team. Smriti has been one of the leading figures in Indian women’s cricket over the years and has played a key role in the team’s progress across formats. 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. She has been an important part of Indian cricket for many years and has consistently shown the qualities required to lead from the front. Her experience and understanding of the game will be valuable as she takes on this 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.”
An experienced international cricketer, she has also demonstrated her leadership qualities in domestic and franchise cricket, most recently leading Royal Challengers Bengaluru to the Women’s Premier League titles in 2024 and 2026.
Speaking on her appointment, Smriti Mandhana said: “To be given the responsibility of leading India is a very special honour. Mr Mithun Manhas, BCCI President, said: “I congratulate Smriti on being entrusted with the responsibility of leading the Indian Women’s Cricket Team. Mr Devajit Saikia, BCCI Honorary Secretary, said: “Congratulations to Smriti on this important responsibility.
