Former India Captain Backs Smriti Mandhana to Replace Harmanpreet Kaur as India Captain

India’s first-ever Women’s ODI World Cup win has sparked a fresh leadership debate. Former captain Shantha Rangaswamy believes it’s time for Smriti Mandhana to take over the reins from Harmanpreet Kaur.

Rangaswamy praised Harmanpreet’s contribution but said a change could help both the player and the team.

“It is overdue. Because Harman, as a batter and a fielder, is brilliant. Yes. But tactically, she can fumble at times. I feel she can contribute more if she is without the burden of captaincy,” she said.

Harmanpreet led India to a historic title triumph over South Africa in Navi Mumbai, but Rangaswamy feels the next step should be about long-term progress.

“See, when it comes after a success like this (World Cup win), it will not be taken well, but in the interest of Indian cricket and in Harman’s own interest, I think she can contribute much more as a batter without the burden of captaincy,” she added.

Rangaswamy drew parallels with the men’s team, which has gone through successful leadership transitions in the past. She believes India’s women’s side can benefit from a similar shift, with Smriti Mandhana ready to lead in both T20 and ODI formats.

She also analyzed the team’s current strengths and weaknesses. “In our days, batting used to be the weaker link. Now batting has a settled look, but bowling is a concern. Fielding, too, can be a lot better,” she explained.

Rangaswamy said the World Cup win has transformed the face of women’s cricket in India. “This victory will inspire more girls to take up cricket. It’s a huge step for women’s sport in the country,” she said.

While the call for change may divide opinions, Rangaswamy’s comments underline the belief that India’s women’s team, now world champions, must keep evolving to stay on top.