Smriti Mandhana appointed India captain across formats

Smriti Mandhana has been appointed as India's all-format women's cricket captain, succeeding Harmanpreet Kaur after nearly a decade in the role. Mandhana, who has previously captained India in one-day internationals (ODIs) and Twenty20 Internationals (T20s), took over as vice-captain to Harmanpreet for much of the tenure. In addition to her international duties, she has captained her domestic team, Maharashtra, and the Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the Women's Premier League.

Mandhana's initial assignment as captain will be a limited-overs series against Zimbabwe, starting with three T20Is in Raipur on October 16. The decision was made during a selection meeting chaired by BCCI member Amita Sharma, where Mandhana was part of the squad selection for the tour. Mandhana expressed her appreciation for Harmanpreet's contributions as captain, acknowledging the responsibility that comes with the new role.

She is set to lead the team in their upcoming series, with an eye on the inaugural Women's Champions Trophy in February, the T20 World Cup, and the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028.