Smriti Mandhana has taken over as the new captain of the Indian women’s cricket team, marking the beginning of a new leadership phase for Indian women’s cricket. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced her appointment on October 6, 2026, after Harmanpreet Kaur stepped down from the captaincy across formats. Mandhana, who previously served as Harmanpreet’s deputy, now takes charge of the national side.
Mandhana Takes Over After Harmanpreet
Harmanpreet Kaur decided to step down from the captaincy following a BCCI review meeting in Guwahati. She will continue playing for India, but she will no longer lead the team. Her decision brings an important chapter in Indian women’s cricket to a close.
Harmanpreet led India through several significant moments during her tenure. Under her leadership, India won the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup, four T20 Asia Cup titles and two Asian Games gold medals. She also became one of the most experienced leaders in women’s international cricket.
Mandhana Brings Leadership Experience
Mandhana has already gained valuable experience as India’s vice-captain and stand-in leader. She has captained India in 18 T20Is and four ODIs before receiving the full-time leadership role. Her experience extends beyond international cricket, with a successful captaincy record in franchise cricket.
The left-handed opener has led Royal Challengers Bengaluru to two Women’s Premier League titles, in 2024 and 2026. Her success with RCB has strengthened her credentials as a leader and given her experience in handling high-pressure matches and different player groups.
A New Chapter for Indian Women’s Cricket
Mandhana has been part of the Indian team since 2013 and has established herself as one of the leading players in women’s cricket. The ICC recently noted that she became the leading run-scorer in women’s international cricket, surpassing former India captain Mithali Raj. She also holds the record for the most international centuries in women’s cricket across formats, with 18 centuries.
Speaking about her appointment, Mandhana described the opportunity to lead India as a special honour. She also acknowledged Harmanpreet’s contribution to the team and said she understands the responsibility that comes with the captaincy.
BCCI President Mithun Manhas also backed the new captain, highlighting her experience, professionalism and ability to lead from the front. BCCI Honorary Secretary Devajit Saikia similarly expressed confidence in Mandhana’s ability to guide the team into its next phase.
Zimbabwe Series Will Mark Her First Assignment
Mandhana’s first assignment as full-time captain will come against Zimbabwe at home. India will play three T20Is in Raipur from October 16, followed by three ODIs in Vadodara from October 23. The series will give Mandhana an early opportunity to establish her leadership approach and work with the team in a new role.
With a successful playing career, previous leadership experience and strong franchise credentials, Mandhana now faces the challenge of taking Indian women’s cricket forward. Her appointment signals a transition in leadership while retaining continuity, as she has worked closely with Harmanpreet and remains one of the team’s most experienced players.
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