Leading India is a special honour - Smriti Mandhana
Smriti Mandhana has been appointed the new captain of the Indian women’s cricket team after Harmanpreet Kaur stepped down from the role.
Mandhana made her international debut in 2013 and has previously led India in 22 matches. She also captained Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to Women’s Premier League titles in 2024 and 2026.
Mandhana has captained India in 18 T20Is, winning 11 of those matches, while she has won all four ODIs in which she has led the side.
In the Women’s Premier League, Mandhana has captained RCB in 35 matches, winning 18, and, most importantly, guiding the franchise to two titles.
Speaking about taking charge of the Indian team, Mandhana said, “The responsibility of leading India is a very special honour.”
She added: “I understand the responsibility that comes with the role and look forward to working with the team, learning along the way and giving my best to take Indian cricket forward.
