Farewells for sports leaders rarely conclude as fans or followers hope they might. For Harmanpreet Kaur, the bleak situation had been a constant presence since India’s T20 World Cup failure in June. Yet, her extended tenure as captain kept the cricketing world in suspense. On Tuesday evening, the Women’s Selection Committee gathered at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati to select the team for the upcoming three T20Is and three ODIs. Mandhana was always the natural pick to succeed as captain, having served as Harmanpreet’s deputy for the longest period.
Shafali Verma will act as Mandhana’s deputy in T20Is, and Deepti Sharma was appointed vice-captain for ODIs. The graceful left-handed batswoman brings substantial captaincy experience, having led Royal Challengers Bengaluru to two WPL titles. Mandhana holds several records in women’s cricket, such as being the top run-scorer across all formats and the most successful centurion in international matches.
BCCI released an official statement saying, “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.”
She further read, “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.”
Mandhana has also recently taken the top spot as the highest run-scorer in T20Is. Meanwhile, Harmanpreet’s run in the shortest format had come to an end, making her decision to step down unsurprising. Under Harmanpreet, India famously claimed the 50-over World Cup last year, yet the T20 World Cup remained out of reach for the Women in Blue.
