Over the years, Mandhana has established herself as one of India’s leading batters across formats. She has also gained valuable leadership experience in domestic and franchise cricket.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has appointed Smriti Mandhana as the full-time captain of the Indian women’s cricket team in white-ball cricket on Tuesday. The experienced batter will take charge of the team as it enters a new phase. BCCI took the decision after Harmanpreet Kaur stepped down as the captain of the team.
Over the years, Mandhana has established herself as one of India’s leading batters across formats. She has also gained valuable leadership experience in domestic and franchise cricket.
A dawn of a new era ✨
Smriti Mandhana takes charge as the Captain of the Indian Women’s cricket team 🇮🇳
Go well, Captain 🫡
More details ▶️ https://t.co/tbLb4jOiCn
#TeamIndia | @mandhana_smriti https://t.co/27AxmrUhKt
— BCCI (@BCCI) October 6, 2026
The left-handed batter has previously led India in 18 T20 Internationals and four One-Day Internationals. She also captained Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to Women’s Premier League (WPL) titles in 2024 and 2026, further strengthening her leadership credentials.
Speaking about her appointment, Mandhana said that leading India was a special honour. She thanked the BCCI, selectors, teammates and everyone who had supported her throughout her career. She also acknowledged Harmanpreet Kaur’s contribution as captain and said she looked forward to working with the team and helping Indian cricket move forward.
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia said, “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.”
— IANS (@ians_india) October 6, 2026
BCCI President Mithun Manhas congratulated Mandhana on her appointment and expressed confidence in her ability to lead the team. He said her experience, understanding of the game and commitment would be valuable in the new role. He also wished her success as she takes Indian women’s cricket forward.