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Mandhana Hails Kaur's Captaincy as Leadership Transition Takes Shape

India's newly appointed women's cricket captain Smriti Mandhana has paid tribute to her predecessor Harmanpreet Kaur, acknowledging the outgoing skipper's successful tenure despite reports of tensions between the two.

LSN India · 7 October 2026

Smriti Mandhana extended her congratulations to Harmanpreet Kaur on Wednesday as the Indian women's cricket team navigated a change in leadership. The transition comes at the conclusion of what has been widely regarded as a productive captaincy period under Kaur's stewardship.

Mandhana's public acknowledgment of her predecessor's accomplishments appears aimed at smoothing the transition process, even as whispers of discord between the two players have circulated in recent weeks. The gesture underscores the significance of maintaining team cohesion during periods of organizational change in Indian cricket.

Harmanpreet Kaur's captaincy has been marked by several notable achievements in women's cricket, establishing her legacy as a leader who steered the team through significant matches and tournaments. Her tenure concluded with the team in a relatively strong position heading into the new era under Mandhana's command.

The changing of the guard in Indian women's cricket captaincy reflects the board's confidence in Mandhana to take the team forward. With both players now focused on their respective roles within the squad structure, the Indian team will look to build on the foundation established during Kaur's leadership period.