New Delhi – After a six‑year spell at the helm, India’s women’s cricket captain Harmanpreet Kaur announced on Tuesday that she will relinquish the armband in Tests, ODIs and T20Is to devote herself entirely to her duties as a player.
A Six‑Year Captaincy Comes to a Close
Now 37, Kaur has been a cornerstone of Indian women’s cricket, leading the side in five Tests, 51 ODIs and 155 T20 internationals. One of the highlights of her reign arrived last month when she helped India secure a second consecutive Asian Games gold medal in the women’s event.
The decision follows India’s recent World Cup triumph, providing a storybook ending to a captaincy marked by both triumphs and trials.
Decision Made After Strategic BCCI Session
The announcement came a day after a planning meeting in Guwahati attended by Kaur, vice‑captain Smriti Mandhana, head coach Amol Muzumdar and BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia. The gathering focused on the future roadmap for the women’s team, and Kaur’s statement adds a key piece to the transition plan.
Team Over Personal Ambition
Reflecting on her years as skipper, Kaur emphasized that she consistently placed the squad’s interests above her own aspirations. She recalled making tough calls, weathering criticism and always striving to build a stronger, more resilient unit.
She also highlighted the importance of creating space for emerging talent, acknowledging that not every decision would please everyone, but the ultimate aim was the long‑term health of the side.
From Setbacks to World Cup Glory
Kaur’s tenure blended low points with landmark successes. While she endured defeats, intense scrutiny and pressure, she also experienced the pride of leading India on the world stage.
The crowning achievement was the World Cup victory – a moment that now serves as a fitting bookend to her captaincy and underscores the significance of her departure for Indian women’s cricket.
She expressed confidence in the depth of the squad, believing the team possesses the talent and foundation required to keep progressing.
Playing Career Far From Over
Stepping down from leadership does not equate to retirement. Kaur made it clear that she remains available for international duty and intends to continue contributing on the field, driven by her love for the game.
She thanked teammates, coaches, support staff, the BCCI, her family and fans for their unwavering support throughout her captaincy journey.
While her era as India’s captain has concluded, Kaur’s playing career is set to continue, offering the side a seasoned performer in a refreshed capacity.
"I want to give the younger players space to grow and focus on my own batting and fielding," Kaur said in a brief statement.
