Harmanpreet Kaur has stepped down as the captain of the Indian women’s cricket team across all formats.
Her decision comes shortly after she guided India to the gold medal at the Asian Games 2026, adding another major achievement to her captaincy career.
One of her biggest accomplishments came in 2025, when she led India to their maiden ODI World Cup title.
‘The Decision Was Not Easy’
Harmanpreet described the decision to leave the captaincy as a difficult one, reflecting on years of memories, emotions and sacrifices during her time as leader.
In an Instagram post on Tuesday, she said she had given everything to the team and Indian women’s cricket. She also acknowledged that she had sometimes put aside her individual performance, personal growth and ambitions in the interests of the team.
She said her role as captain required her to make difficult decisions, some of which were not always understood and occasionally came at a personal cost. However, she maintained that her intention was always to make the team stronger and give other players opportunities to grow and develop.
A Captaincy Journey Filled With Highs and Lows
Harmanpreet reflected on both the challenging and successful moments of her captaincy journey.
She spoke about experiencing difficult periods, heartbreak, criticism and doubts, alongside victories, celebrations and the pride of representing India.
Despite the challenges, she said she was leaving the captaincy with peace and pride, believing the team is now in a strong position for the future.
India Women’s Team Has a Strong Future
Harmanpreet said she believes the Indian women’s team has talent, character and confidence, along with a promising future.
She expressed excitement about continuing to be part of the team and watching its development from a different role.
The former captain said she felt she had fulfilled her responsibility and given everything she could to Indian women’s cricket.
Harmanpreet made it clear that stepping down from the leadership role does not mean the end of her commitment to Indian cricket.
She said she would continue playing for the love of the game and remain committed to the team.
The 2025 ODI World Cup triumph and the 2026 Asian Games gold medal stand among the defining achievements of her leadership career.
Harmanpreet Thanks Teammates and Supporters
Harmanpreet thanked her teammates, coaches, support staff, management and the BCCI for their support throughout her captaincy journey.
She also expressed gratitude to her family and fans, acknowledging their role in supporting her through the highs and lows of her career.
With the captaincy chapter now closed, Harmanpreet said she is ready to turn the page while continuing her journey as a player for Indian women’s cricket.