Will Smriti Mandhana replace Harmanpreet Kaur as captain? Star batsman himself revealed

Smriti Mandhana: Indian women’s cricket team’s star opener Smriti Mandhana is ready to replace Harmanpreet Kaur as the captain of Team India. The opening batsman has made it clear that whenever he gets a chance, he is absolutely ready to take up the responsibility of captaincy. The Indian vice-captain believes that Harmanpreet’s years spent as his deputy have prepared him for the additional responsibility of captaincy.

Mandhana ready to become captain

In fact, in a recent interview given to The Times of India, Smriti Mandhana, when asked about the possibility of captaining Team India in the absence of Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur, said that yes, absolutely. I am ready. The 29-year-old Indian opening batsman has expressed full confidence in his captaincy ability.

Q: There has been speculation about a Captaincy transition – are you ready to lead India if asked? (Gaurav Gupta from TOI)

Smriti Mandhana said “Yes, of course – I am ready”. pic.twitter.com/K4AsrTvc4E

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) July 15, 2026

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Created identity as a leader

In the last few years, Smriti Mandhana has not only been a reliable batsman for India, but has also made her mark as a leader. She emerged as a leader who can handle the team in difficult and stressful situations. Being vice-captain for a long time gave him good leadership experience. She has taken command of the team many times in the absence of Harmanpreet.

Mandhana’s captaincy record

29-year-old Smriti Mandhana has captained Team India in 18 T20 International and 4 ODI matches, winning a total of 15 matches. Apart from this, India has been unbeaten in all the four ODI matches played under the leadership of Mandhana. This statement of Mandhana on captaincy has come after India’s victory at the historic ground of Lord’s.