'I feel I have done my duty': Harmanpreet Kaur steps down as India captain

India's veteran women's cricket captain Harmanpreet Kaur has announced her retirement from all three formats of the game. The 37-year-old announced her decision on Instagram, stating that she has fulfilled her responsibility as captain and is now ready to return to the sport without the burdens of leadership. "Today, I step down as captain of the Indian Women's Cricket Team across all formats," she expressed, acknowledging that this was a difficult choice filled with years of memories, emotions, sacrifices, and moments that will remain with her forever.

Kaur emphasized that her stepping down as captain does not mark the end of her international cricket career; instead, she is eager to play once again with renewed passion. Over a decade leading India's T20I team, she guided the team to significant victories, including their first-ever ODI World Cup win and a consecutive Asian Games gold in the T20 format.

Speaking about her tenure, Harmanpreet expressed immense pride in the team's progress and confidence in their future. She recounted the lows and highs of her leadership journey, including the personal sacrifices she made for the team's benefit. Amidst the challenges, Kaur highlighted the importance of putting the team first, making tough decisions for their greater good.

Despite the emotional weight of her decision, she affirmed her belief that the team is in a strong position, ready to embrace new challenges. Kaur expressed gratitude to her teammates, coaches, support staff, management, BCCI, family, and fans for their unwavering support. As she concludes her captaincy, Kaur remains committed to the game, stating that her love for Indian cricket will endure, and her journey as a player continues.