India Women‘s cricket team faced a disappointing exit from the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, failing to progress beyond the group stage despite being considered strong contenders for the title. The team’s performance fell short of expectations, and their early elimination was a major setback.
Before the multi-team event, the Women in Blue were unable to defend their Asia Cup title, suffering a defeat to Sri Lanka in the final. These underwhelming results have raised concerns about Harmanpreet Kaur‘s leadership, as she struggled to guide the team to success in 2024, despite being a key figure in the squad.
With the next Women’s T20 World Cup set for 2026 in England, the Indian team management needs to address several pressing issues, including the captaincy. Appointing Smriti Mandhana as the new skipper could provide the team with fresh leadership and a new direction. Meanwhile, Harmanpreet’s experience would still be valuable, allowing her to support the team’s transition.
3 reasons why Smriti Mandhana is well-suited to take on the role of captain
1. Consistent performer and reliable leader
Mandhana has consistently been one of the best performers for the Indian women’s team across formats. Her reliability with the bat and ability to deliver under pressure make her a natural leader on the field. As a vice-captain, she has already played a significant role in guiding the team, and her consistent performances have earned her the respect of teammates and opponents alike. Handing over the captaincy to a player who leads by example could instill confidence in the rest of the squad, setting a positive tone for future campaigns. Moreover, she showcased her leadership abilities by guiding Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to title victory in the Women’s Premier League (WPL), further proving her credentials as an effective captain.
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2. Fresh perspective and strategic approach
A change in leadership often brings a fresh perspective, and Mandhana’s dynamic and aggressive style could be what India needs to regain their competitive edge. Known for her tactical acumen, Mandhana has shown a sharp understanding of the game and has the ability to read match situations well. Her approach to the game could introduce new strategies, especially in high-pressure scenarios, where India has faltered in recent tournaments. With Mandhana at the helm, the team could see more innovative and flexible tactics, helping them stay ahead of their rivals.
3. Grooming for future success
With the next Women’s T20 World Cup scheduled for 2026, it is the perfect opportunity for Mandhana to gain valuable experience as a captain. Early appointment would allow her to develop her leadership skills, build her rapport with the team, and shape the squad according to her vision. By the time the 2026 tournament arrives, Mandhana would have had sufficient time to implement her strategies and address the team’s weaknesses. Furthermore, with Harmanpreet still being an integral part of the team, Mandhana can benefit from her experience and guidance, creating a smooth transition of leadership.
