When MS Dhoni stepped down as captain of the Indian men's team, Virat Kohli took over the reins, with the former skipper continuing to guide him during the transition. Dhoni often helped Kohli with field placements, DRS decisions, and bowling changes, ensuring that his experience remained available to the team. The BCCI now hopes to see a similar approach in the Indian women's team following the captaincy transition from Harmanpreet Kaur to Smriti Mandhana.
Harmanpreet recently stepped down as India's captain after a successful tenure, with Mandhana taking charge of the side. The opener's first assignment in the role is the home series against Zimbabwe. However, Harmanpreet remains part of the squad, and BCCI president Mithun Manhas believes her experience could prove valuable to the new captain.
Speaking to Sportstar, Manhas stressed the importance of having an experienced player around when a new captain takes over the responsibility.
“I have always believed that the baton should be passed on when you have somebody senior around to guide them,” he said. “Because captaincy is not easy, no matter how experienced you are.”
Manhas also drew parallels with the leadership transitions in the Indian men's team. When Dhoni took over as captain, he had former skipper Sourav Ganguly to guide him. Dhoni later continued the same tradition by supporting Kohli and Rohit Sharma during their captaincy tenures.
Now, Kohli and Rohit are helping Shubman Gill settle into his role as India's captain. According to Manhas, such transitions allow incoming leaders to benefit from the knowledge and experience of their predecessors while adjusting to the demands of captaincy.
'Harmanpreet will be an asset for Smriti'
Manhas believes Harmanpreet's continued presence in the Indian women's squad will be an advantage for Mandhana, particularly when the latter encounters challenging situations on the field. Having a senior player to consult can help a captain make important decisions with greater confidence.
“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.
Manhas did not directly explain the decision to appoint Mandhana as captain. Instead, he highlighted the importance of the support system around her as she takes on the new responsibility. Harmanpreet's experience of leading India through major tournaments and high-pressure situations could help Mandhana navigate the challenges of captaincy.
With the transition underway, the BCCI's approach reflects the value of continuity in leadership, allowing a new captain to grow into the role while continuing to benefit from the guidance of an experienced teammate.
