Kaptaan sahiba steps down after a magnificent tenure.

The Indian women’s team captain Harmanpreet Kaur has stepped down after a journey that many would envy, but most importantly, everyone would want to experience. This decision came after Kaur and the BCCI had a meeting in Mumbai earlier in the day.

Harmanpreet, 37, captained India on 211 occasions across formats. India achieved several accolades under her leadership that included wins in the 2012, 2016 and 2022 editions of the Asia Cup along with gold medals at the 2022 and 2026 Asian Games.

But the biggest achievement of her career was the ODI world cup win at home. Her innings against Australia, who have been her favourite opponents was a sight to behold as she played second fiddle to that stunning Jemimah Rodrigues century. The final catch of the tournament was also taken by her as life came full circle as Harman was the one who made people sit up and notice women’s cricket.

“I have given everything I had to this team and to Indian women’s cricket — my blood, my sweat, my time, and many times, a part of my own game and personal ambitions. There were moments when I had to put my individual performance, my own growth, and what I wanted for myself aside, because I believed the team had to come first,” she was quoted saying.

Diana Edulji, the chief selector of the women's team heaped praises on Harman. It is a good decision she has taken in the interest of the future of women’s cricket, by giving enough time to the new captain and the team to gel under her captaincy. As Mr Gavaskar has always said, people should ask ‘why’ and not ‘why not’. I wish her all the best for her future. She has a few years left, whichever format she chooses to play. She should enjoy the remaining time in her career,”

Smriti Mandana, who was already the vice captain has officially been announced the captain a day after Harman stepped down. The southpaw who has enthralled viewers with her eye catching strokes has now the additional responsibility of a captain as well. 

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 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." Smriti said.

As her tenure comes to a glorious end, we thank Kaptaan Kaur for giving us some unforgettable memories over the years.