Former India captain Shantha Rangaswamy has called for a change in leadership of the women's cricket team, suggesting Smriti Mandhana should replace Harmanpreet Kaur as captain across all formats. This recommendation comes shortly after India clinched their first-ever Women's World Cup title under Harmanpreet's leadership, defeating South Africa by 52 runs in Navi Mumbai on November 2. Rangaswamy, who became the first-ever captain of the Indian women's cricket team and received the 1976 Arjuna Award, believes the transition would benefit both Harmanpreet and Indian cricket. She argues that Harmanpreet could contribute more effectively as a batter without captaincy responsibilities, despite her brilliance as a batter and fielder. Meanwhile, Smriti Mandhana, currently serving as vice-captain, impressed as the second-highest run-scorer in the World Cup with 434 runs in nine innings. India's upcoming series against Australia will include three T20Is, three ODIs, and one Test match.
Call for Leadership Transition Despite World Cup Success
Shantha Rangaswamy stated that the captaincy change is overdue, acknowledging Harmanpreet's excellence as a batter and fielder but pointing out occasional tactical shortcomings. She emphasized that removing the captaincy burden would allow Harmanpreet to express herself more freely and contribute significantly to the team. Rangaswamy recognizes the timing may appear controversial following the recent World Cup victory but insists the move serves both Indian cricket's future and Harmanpreet's personal interests. She advocates for appointing Smriti Mandhana as captain across all formats to prepare for upcoming World Cups and strengthen the team's core. According to Rangaswamy, building on the home World Cup triumph requires forward planning and developing the next generation to handle future challenges and tournaments effectively.
Source: Link