Is Harmanpreet Kaur Set to Lose Captaincy After India’s Early Exit From Women’s T20 World Cup 2024?

India’s disappointing campaign in the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 has placed Harmanpreet Kaur’s future as captain in doubt. After the team failed to qualify for the semi-finals, losing crucial matches to New Zealand and Australia, reports suggest that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is considering a leadership change. This speculation arises as the BCCI plans a meeting with head coach Amol Muzumdar and the selection committee to assess the team’s recent performances and chart out a new course for Indian women’s cricket.

A source close to the BCCI revealed, “The board feels it might be time for a fresh face to lead the team. Harmanpreet Kaur remains an important part of the squad, but there is a belief that a transition is necessary to take the team forward.” The source added that while Kaur’s position as a player is secure, discussions about her captaincy will take center stage.

India’s journey in the tournament was anything but smooth. After a poor start with a heavy defeat to New Zealand, they managed to bounce back with wins over Pakistan and Sri Lanka. However, a narrow loss to Australia ended their World Cup hopes, marking the first time in eight years that India has failed to reach the knockout stages.

Under Kaur’s leadership, India had previously made significant progress, reaching the 2018 and 2023 World Cup semi-finals, and finishing as runners-up in 2020. However, the inconsistency seen in this year’s tournament has drawn widespread criticism. Former Indian captain Mithali Raj echoed these sentiments, stating that the team has not shown much growth in the past few years.

Raj suggested that if the BCCI is contemplating a captaincy change, now is the time to do it. “Smriti Mandhana has been vice-captain for a while and is a potential candidate, but someone like Jemimah Rodrigues, who is young and energetic, could also be considered. We need someone who can bring fresh energy to the field,” Raj said in an interview.

Rodrigues, 24, has impressed many with her leadership qualities and performance in the tournament, and she could be a strong contender to take over the reins from Kaur. On the other hand, Smriti Mandhana’s experience and leadership skills make her a reliable option for the role as well.

The BCCI’s decision is expected to be finalized before the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand, scheduled for later this month. Even if Kaur is replaced as captain, she is still expected to play a key role in the team, given her vast experience and significant contributions to Indian women’s cricket.

image credit: thesportsrush.com

also read:Bengaluru Fans Brave Rain to Cheer Virat Kohli as Day 1 of India vs New Zealand Test Gets Delayed