Smriti Mandhana has said she is prepared to lead India’s women’s team. The vice-captain made the comment in a recent interview, shortly after starring in the historic Test at Lord’s, where she scored 83 in the first innings and 70 in the second as India won by 270 runs.
A personal milestone
The match was her 300th international appearance, making her, at 29, the youngest woman to reach that figure. Asked if she would take the captaincy, she answered simply that she was ready.
Leadership approach
Mandhana said she values a positive team culture in which players feel trusted, valued and free to express themselves. She has experience as captain of Royal Challengers Bengaluru, who won the Women’s Premier League in 2024 and 2026.
She also reflected on India’s recent T20 difficulties, acknowledging that the team must learn better from past errors. In her view India need a clear roadmap to the 2028 T20 World Cup, with a defined approach to the format and better planning for future tournaments.
Asian Games role
Mandhana will be vice-captain of India’s squad at the 2026 Asian Games, where women’s cricket is scheduled in Japan from 17 to 22 September. Harmanpreet Kaur will captain the team.
