Smriti Mandhana has been named the new captain of the Indian women’s cricket team, taking over from Harmanpreet Kaur as the BCCI ushers in a new phase for the side.
Mandhana will be India’s full-time white-ball captain, having already led the team in 18 T20Is and four ODIs. The left-hander has been part of the Indian setup since 2013 and is now set to take on the biggest leadership role of her international career.
The 29-year-old has also built a strong leadership record in franchise cricket. She led Royal Challengers Bengaluru to Women’s Premier League titles in 2024 and 2026, adding to her experience of managing a side at the highest level.
Mandhana said taking charge of India was an honour and thanked the BCCI, selectors and her teammates for putting their faith in her.
“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,” Mandhana 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.
“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.”
BCCI president Mithun Manhas backed Mandhana to handle the responsibility, pointing to her experience with the Indian team and her leadership qualities.
“I congratulate Smriti on being entrusted with the responsibility of leading the Indian Women’s Cricket Team. She has been an important part of Indian cricket for many years and has consistently shown the qualities required to lead from the front,” Manhas said.
“Her experience and understanding of the game will be valuable as she takes on this responsibility.”
BCCI honorary secretary Devajit Saikia also pointed to Mandhana’s success with RCB in the WPL as evidence of her leadership credentials.
“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,” Saikia said.
“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.”
Mandhana’s first full-time stint as India’s white-ball captain comes after years as one of the team’s most dependable batters. She will now be at the centre of India’s next chapter, with the responsibility of leading the side on the field while continuing to play a key role with the bat.
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