After Harmanpreet Kaur stepped down as captain, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced on Tuesday night that Smriti Mandhana will take over as India women’s full-time white-ball captain.
Mandhana has previously led India across formats. She has captained the team in 18 T20Is and four ODIs and will now take charge of the white-ball sides on a permanent basis.
One of the leading figures in Indian women’s cricket, Mandhana has played a key role in the team’s progress across formats. She also brings leadership experience from domestic and franchise cricket. Most recently, she led Royal Challengers Bengaluru to Women’s Premier League titles in 2024 and 2026.
“Having been part of the Indian team since 2013, Smriti brings considerable experience into the role. She will now take on the responsibility of leading the side, with the team entering a new phase and continuing to build on the progress made in recent years,” the BCCI said in a statement on Tuesday.
Speaking about her appointment, Mandhana said leading India represents a special honour and thanked the BCCI, selectors, teammates and supporters for placing their trust in her.
She also acknowledged Harmanpreet’s contribution as captain and praised her commitment to the team over the years.
“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,” Mandhana said.
BCCI President Mithun Manhas congratulated Mandhana and expressed confidence in her ability to lead the Indian women’s team.
“Smriti 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,” Manhas said.
“The BCCI has full confidence in Smriti, and I am sure she will approach this role with the same commitment and professionalism that she has shown throughout her career. On behalf of the BCCI, I wish her the very best and look forward to seeing her lead the team into this new chapter,” he added.
BCCI Honorary Secretary Devajit Saikia also congratulated Mandhana and highlighted her experience and leadership qualities.
“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.
Saikia also pointed to Mandhana’s success with Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the Women’s Premier League as evidence of her leadership ability.
“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,” he said.
He wished Mandhana and the team success as they begin a new chapter under her leadership.