Mumbai: Smriti Mandhana will succeed Harmanpreet Kaur as full-time captain of the Indian women’s cricket team.
Mandhana, who has filled in as skipper of the National team in 18 T20Is and four ODIs while being the deputy of Harmanpreet over the last decade, has been a mainstay of the Indian team since making her international debut in 2013.
Mandhana is the all-time leading run-scorer in women’s international cricket with 11,066 runs and holds the record for the most international centuries by a woman with 18 hundreds (2 in Tests, 14 in ODIs, 2 in T20Is).
Mandhana also captained Royal Challengers Bengaluru to the Women’s Premier League titles in 2024 and 2026.
Mandhana said leading India was a special honour.
“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,” the 29-year-old said.
“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,” the left-handed opener said.
“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,” she stated.
