She made India fall in love with women’s cricket – now her era as captain is over

Harmanpreet Kaur has stepped down as captain of the Indian women's cricket team across all formats, concluding an era that brought the nation historic World Cup, Asia Cup, and Asian Games titles. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) ratified the change during a review meeting attended by secretary Devajit Saikia and coach Amol Muzumdar. Star opening batter Smriti Mandhana has been appointed as her successor.

While Harmanpreet had hoped to continue leading in Tests and ODIs, the BCCI preferred a complete transition to the 30-year-old Mandhana. The decision follows a dip in the 37-year-old's form and a disappointing T20 World Cup campaign, though Harmanpreet has confirmed she intends to remain available as an active player.