On Tuesday, October 6, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the appointment of Smriti Mandhana as the captain of the Indian Women’s Cricket Team across formats.
It’s important to note that Smriti has led India in 18 T20Is and four ODIs as an interim captain so far. Notably, BCCI’s decision came right after Harmanpreet Kaur decided to step down from her role with immediate effect.
The 30-year-old batter, who has represented India since 2013, has already guided Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to Women’s Premier League (WPL) titles in the 2024 and 2026 seasons.
Speaking about Mandhana’s captaincy record, she has led India in 18 T20Is, winning 11 and losing six, with one match ending without a result. In ODIs, she has won all four games she captained. On the other hand, in the WPL, she has led RCB in 35 matches, winning 18 wins and losing 17 games.
Smriti Mandhana:
“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. 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.”
Mr Mithun Manhas, BCCI President:
“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. Her experience and understanding of the game will be valuable as she takes on this responsibility.
“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.”
Mr Devajit Saikia, BCCI Honorary Secretary:
“Congratulations to Smriti on this important responsibility. 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.
“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. I wish her and the team every success in the journey ahead and look forward to seeing Indian Cricket continue to progress under her leadership.”
