BCCI Wants Harmanpreet Kaur to Mentor Smriti Mandhana After Captaincy Handover
BCCI president Mithun Manhas believes Harmanpreet Kaur can guide new Indian women’s captain Smriti Mandhana, following a leadership model seen in the men’s team.
BCCI president Mithun Manhas wants Harmanpreet Kaur to support Smriti Mandhana as she takes charge of the Indian women’s cricket team. He believes experienced players can help new captains navigate difficult decisions.
Harmanpreet recently handed over the captaincy to Mandhana after a successful stint. Mandhana’s first assignment as skipper is the home series against Zimbabwe. Harmanpreet remains part of the squad, giving the new captain access to her experience.
Speaking to Sportstar, Manhas said leadership transitions work better when senior players remain available to guide their successors. He stressed that captaincy brings challenges regardless of a player’s experience.
Manhas pointed to the Indian men’s team as an example. Sourav Ganguly helped MS Dhoni during his early leadership years, while Dhoni later supported Virat Kohli after stepping down as captain. Dhoni was often seen advising Kohli on field placements, bowling changes and decision reviews.
The same pattern continued as Kohli and Rohit Sharma helped Shubman Gill settle into his leadership role.
Manhas believes Harmanpreet can play a similar role for Mandhana, particularly when the new captain faces difficult choices.
“There will be situations when you have to make decisions and you are confused. So, I think Harmanpreet will be an asset for Smriti,” Manhas said.
He did not directly explain Mandhana’s appointment but highlighted the importance of experience and support during a change in leadership.
