Mandhana replaces Harmanpreet as India captain

Harmanpreet Kaur has left her role as the captain of the India national cricket team across all three formats. She led India in five Tests, 51 one-day internationals, and 155 T20 internationals, securing the nation's first global title by winning the 50-over World Cup last year. The 37-year-old last captained on 22 September, achieving a second consecutive Asian Games title against Sri Lanka.

Smriti Mandhana has been appointed as her replacement. Mandhana, an opener, has previously skippered India in limited-overs formats and expressed her excitement about the opportunity. In an Instagram post, Harmanpreet shared her sentiments, stating she was leaving the team in a "good place" and was "ready to play for the love of the game again."

Harmanpreet described stepping down as a tough decision, reflecting on her journey with the team. She mentioned, "This carries years of memories, emotions, sacrifices, and moments that will stay with me for the rest of my life." She acknowledged her dedication, noting that she had put her ambitions aside for the team's benefit.

Her captaincy tenure included leading India to victory in the one-off Test against England at Lord’s in July. However, India faced disappointment in the prior T20 World Cup, exiting in the group stage for the second consecutive time. Mandhana, 30, already has 18 T20 and four ODI matches as captain, as well as having led Royal Challengers Bengaluru to two Women’s Premier League titles.

She emphasized the honor of leading the Indian team, stating that she would value this responsibility deeply. India is scheduled to host Zimbabwe for three T20 and three ODIs starting on 16 October.