Smriti Mandhana Captaincy: Diana Edulji Calls for Early Change
Smriti Mandhana Captaincy Debate Gains Momentum
Former India women鈥檚 cricketer Diana Edulji has called for Smriti Mandhana to take over as India captain at the earliest, saying the team should begin preparing for its next World Cup well in advance. Edulji鈥檚 comments come with Harmanpreet Kaur still leading the side, including at the ongoing Asian Games.
Edulji believes Mandhana should be given a sustained run as captain rather than waiting until the next major transition. She also suggested that younger players should be groomed for leadership responsibilities alongside Mandhana.
Smriti Mandhana Captaincy Comes After Record-Breaking Asia Cup
Mandhana has strengthened her position as one of India’s most experienced players through her recent performances. During the Women鈥檚 Asia Cup 2026, she scored 213 runs in five matches, including a record-breaking 124 against Hong Kong. She also surpassed Mithali Raj鈥檚 10,868 international runs to become the leading run-scorer in women鈥檚 international cricket.
Her Asia Cup campaign came as India went on to win the tournament, defeating Sri Lanka in the final. Harmanpreet, meanwhile, scored 71 runs across the same five matches.
Smriti Mandhana Captaincy Proposal Includes Young Vice-Captains
Edulji’s suggestion goes beyond simply changing the captain. She said India could use the transition period to prepare the next generation of leaders, naming Jemimah Rodrigues and Shafali Verma as possible vice-captaincy options.
The former India captain has previously discussed the possibility of a split leadership structure, with Mandhana handling white-ball cricket while Harmanpreet could continue in Tests. Her latest comments, however, call for Mandhana to be given a broader opportunity ahead of the next World Cup.
Smriti Mandhana Captaincy Discussion Comes Before Asian Games
For now, Harmanpreet remains India’s captain. The BCCI named her skipper for the 2026 Asian Games, with Mandhana as vice-captain, and India entered the tournament as defending champions.
The immediate focus, therefore, remains on India’s Asian Games campaign. Edulji’s comments concern the longer-term leadership structure rather than announcing any official change by the BCCI or selectors.
Smriti Mandhana Captaincy Could Become a Future Transition
Edulji’s argument centres on succession planning. She pointed out that Harmanpreet will be approaching 40 by the time the next ODI World Cup arrives and believes Mandhana should receive enough time in the leadership role before that tournament.
For now, the captaincy remains with Harmanpreet, while Mandhana continues as vice-captain. Any formal change would ultimately depend on the Indian selectors and the BCCI.
