Smriti Mandhana has been appointed the permanent all-format captain of the Indian women's cricket team, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed on Tuesday night, 6 October 2026, following Harmanpreet Kaur's decision to step down from captaincy. The announcement marks a significant changing of the guard in Indian women's cricket.

From Deputy to Skipper

Mandhana is no stranger to leading the side — she has previously captained India in 18 T20 Internationals and 4 ODIs. Her transition from stand-in skipper to permanent all-format captain reflects the BCCI's confidence in her ability to steer the team through what the board describes as 'a new phase.' She has been part of the Indian setup since 2013, accumulating over a decade of international experience across formats.

Beyond the international stage, Mandhana has demonstrated consistent leadership credentials in franchise cricket, guiding Royal Challengers Bengaluru to Women's Premier League (WPL) titles in both 2024 and 2026 — a track record that reportedly strengthened the selectors' case for her appointment.

What the BCCI Said

In its official release, the BCCI said: 'Having been part of the Indian team since 2013, Smriti brings considerable experience into the role. She will now take on the responsibility of leading the side, with the team entering a new phase and continuing to build on the progress made in recent years.'

BCCI President Mithun Manhas congratulated Mandhana, stating: 'She has been an important part of Indian cricket for many years and has consistently shown the qualities required to lead from the front. The BCCI has full confidence in Smriti, and I am sure she will approach this role with the same commitment and professionalism that she has shown throughout her career.'

BCCI Honorary Secretary Devajit Saikia echoed those sentiments, adding that Mandhana's WPL captaincy record was 'another example of her leadership qualities.'

Mandhana Speaks on the Honour

Accepting the role, Mandhana said: 'To be given the responsibility of leading India is a very special honour. Representing India has always meant a great deal to me, and to now have the opportunity to lead the team is something I will value deeply. I am grateful to the BCCI, the selectors, my teammates, and everyone who has supported me throughout my journey and for the trust they have placed in me.'

She also paid tribute to her predecessor: 'I would also like to acknowledge Harmanpreet and the contribution she has made as captain over the years. She has led the team with great commitment and has been an important part of our journey.'

Harmanpreet's Exit and What Comes Next

Harmanpreet Kaur's tenure as India women's captain was among the longest and most consequential in the team's history, spanning multiple ICC tournaments and a period of rapid growth for women's cricket in India, including the launch of the WPL. Her decision to quit captaincy — rather than being removed — allows for a relatively smooth handover.

With the Indian women's team set to compete in upcoming bilateral series and ICC events, all eyes will now be on how Mandhana stamps her own strategic identity on a squad that has made steady strides under structured leadership. The BCCI has not yet announced a vice-captain or selection panel composition for the new cycle.