The unforgettable Harmanpreet Kaur leadership transformed the way Indian women’s cricket is viewed. Her decision to step down as captain across all formats on October 6, 2026, ended a decade-long era in which India evolved from perennial underdogs into world champions and regular contenders for major titles.

The 37-year-old leaves behind an impressive list of achievements. India won the ODI World Cup on home soil in 2025 under her captaincy, before claiming Asia Cup and Asian Games gold medals in 2026. But those closest to the team have emphasised that her biggest contribution was the mindset she created: one built on belief, resilience and the expectation of winning.

A leadership journey that began in 2012

Harmanpreet first led India in 2012, when injuries to Mithali Raj and Jhulan Goswami handed her the responsibility of captaining the side in the T20 Asia Cup final. She rose to the occasion, guiding India to an 18-run win over Pakistan and the inaugural Women’s T20 Asia Cup title.

She became the full-time T20I captain in 2016 and later took charge of the ODI and Test teams after Mithali retired in 2022. Overall, Harmanpreet led India in five Tests, 51 ODIs and 155 T20Is, becoming the first captain, male or female, to skipper a side in more than 150 T20Is.

The achievements that changed Indian cricket

Harmanpreet’s captaincy delivered some of the most important results in Indian women’s cricket history:

• India’s first ICC Women’s ODI World Cup title, won at home in 2025

• Four Asia Cup triumphs in 2012, 2016, 2022 and 2026

• Back-to-back Asian Games gold medals in 2022 and 2026

• India’s first Test win over Australia in 2023 and first bilateral ODI series victory in England since 1999 in 2022

• A runners-up finish at the 2020 Women’s T20 World Cup, alongside semifinal appearances in 2018 and 2023

These milestones broke barriers and created a stronger expectation of success for future Indian teams.

Confidence became her biggest gift

Harmanpreet’s most lasting influence may be the self-belief she instilled in her players. Her unforgettable 171 not out against Australia in the 2017 World Cup semifinal was not only a remarkable individual performance; it demonstrated that India could stand toe to toe with the game’s strongest sides.

Suniel Shetty reflected this in his tribute: “What you’ve given this team goes far beyond wins and trophies. It was the fight, the fire, the grit and that refusal to ever back down.” CJP’s Abhijeet Dipke similarly said her greatest achievement was creating a team that knows how to fight even when she is no longer leading it.

A team shaped to expect success

Under Harmanpreet, India developed a more aggressive and confident identity. She was not only managing matches but building a culture in which players expected to win rather than simply participate.

That approach also brought success in the WPL with Mumbai Indians. Harmanpreet led the franchise to titles in 2023 and 2025, creating a side with a clear identity while managing different talents under significant pressure.

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A smooth transition for Indian cricket

Harmanpreet announced her decision to step down during a BCCI review meeting. She said she had “done my duty” and was ready to play again for the love of the game.

She publicly endorsed Smriti Mandhana, her long-time deputy, to take the team forward. “Ten years of your leadership have been incredible,” Smriti said, adding, “The journey continues.” The BCCI acknowledged Harmanpreet’s contribution as an important chapter in Indian women’s cricket’s growth, noting her role in making the team more competitive across formats.

The legacy beyond victories

Harmanpreet leaves behind a team that is confident, has a clear identity and is expected to compete for titles rather than simply take part. That cultural shift is arguably her greatest achievement as a leader.

As one tribute put it: “You don’t just leave behind victories; you leave behind people who know how to win without you.”

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What comes next for Harmanpreet

At 37, Harmanpreet remains India’s most-capped women’s cricketer and will continue playing as a senior member of the squad. Her experience will be valuable to Smriti and the next generation as India aims to defend its World Cup status and build on its recent successes.

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