The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to decide whether the India women’s team will see a change in captaincy following their early exit from the ongoing T20 World Cup in the UAE. For the first time in recent memory, Harmanpreet Kaur’s team failed to reach the knockout stages, extending their long wait for an ICC title.
The BCCI will meet with the selection committee and head coach Amol Muzumdar to discuss Harmanpreet’s future as captain before the squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against New Zealand is selected. Harmanpreet, who took over as T20 captain in 2016 after India missed the semifinals of the home tournament, has led the team to knockout stages in the past, including the final of the 2020 edition. However, this year, India’s performance fell short, with a crushing loss to New Zealand in the opening match and elimination at the hands of Australia last Sunday.
Despite Harmanpreet’s strong presence in the team, her captaincy is now under scrutiny. A source in the BCCI hinted at potential changes, saying, “We feel it’s high time a new face leads the team. Harmanpreet will continue to be a vital player, but the BCCI is considering a transition in leadership.”
The decision on a new captain could be announced before the ODI series against New Zealand, giving the new leader time to prepare for the upcoming 50-over World Cup, set to be held in India. A leadership change would allow the captain ample time to build a competitive squad ahead of the tournament.
India’s campaign in the T20 World Cup was marred by familiar issues, with inconsistent batting being a major factor in their underwhelming performance. Despite pre-tournament camps and early preparation in the UAE, India managed only two wins from four matches.
Though Harmanpreet’s position as a player remains secure, the BCCI may also review the contracts of some support staff in the wake of India’s disappointing performance.
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