Harmanpreet Kaur has stepped down as the captain of the Indian women’s cricket team across all three formats following a review meeting with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The decision marks the end of an important chapter in Indian women’s cricket, with Harmanpreet having led the side through several major international tournaments and landmark moments.
The decision was taken after a BCCI review meeting in Guwahati involving senior officials, Harmanpreet, vice-captain Smriti Mandhana and head coach Amol Muzumdar. The meeting focused on the team’s recent performances and the road ahead for Indian women’s cricket. Harmanpreet’s decision to step aside from captaincy is understood to be part of a broader transition within the team.
Despite giving up the leadership role, Harmanpreet is expected to remain an important member of the Indian squad. Her experience, batting ability and understanding of international cricket could continue to provide valuable support to the team, particularly as a new leadership group takes shape.
Harmanpreet’s captaincy has been closely associated with the growth of women’s cricket in India. She became one of the most recognisable figures in the sport and played a major role in taking the team through a period of increased attention and expectations. Under her leadership, India achieved several significant results across formats.
One of the biggest highlights of her tenure came with India’s historic Women’s ODI World Cup triumph in 2025. The achievement represented a major milestone for Indian women’s cricket and added another significant chapter to Harmanpreet’s international career. The team also secured a gold medal at the 2026 Asian Games, further strengthening her legacy as one of India’s most successful women’s captains.
With Harmanpreet stepping down, attention will now turn towards her successor. Smriti Mandhana is widely viewed as the leading candidate to take charge across formats. Mandhana has already held leadership responsibilities and is considered one of the senior figures in the Indian dressing room.
A change in captaincy could bring a fresh approach as India prepares for its upcoming international commitments. At the same time, Harmanpreet’s continued presence as a player would give the new captain access to an experienced campaigner who has been part of India’s top-level cricket for many years.
The transition is therefore unlikely to mean the end of Harmanpreet’s influence on the Indian team. Instead, her move away from captaincy could allow her to concentrate more on her batting and playing responsibilities while contributing her experience from within the squad.
For Indian women’s cricket, the change represents the beginning of a new leadership era. The BCCI and team management will now look to ensure a smooth transition while building on the progress made during Harmanpreet Kaur’s tenure.
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