Smriti Mandhana Named India Women’s Captain
Smriti Mandhana has been appointed captain of the Indian women’s cricket team, taking over from Harmanpreet Kaur as India begins a new leadership phase ahead of its upcoming home series against Zimbabwe.
Smriti Mandhana Named India Women’s Captain
The BCCI confirmed Mandhana’s appointment after Harmanpreet stepped down from the captaincy on October 6.
Mandhana has been one of India’s most experienced players since making her international debut in 2013 and has previously served as vice-captain.
She has already led India in 18 T20 internationals and four ODIs, giving her prior experience of the role before taking over on a permanent basis.
Mandhana to Lead India’s White-Ball Teams
The 30-year-old will take charge as India’s full-time white-ball captain, beginning with the upcoming home series against Zimbabwe.
India will play three T20Is in Raipur from October 16 to 20, followed by three ODIs in Vadodara from October 23 to 28.
Shafali Verma has been named vice-captain for the T20I series.
Harmanpreet Kaur Remains in India Squad
Harmanpreet will continue playing for India despite relinquishing the captaincy and has been included in both the ODI and T20I squads against Zimbabwe.
Mandhana also brings significant franchise leadership experience, having captained Royal Challengers Bengaluru to Women’s Premier League titles in 2024 and 2026.
Her appointment comes as India looks to build on recent success while preparing for the next cycle of major international tournaments.
