India’s disappointing performance at the recently concluded ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 in Dubai has reportedly led to questions being raised about Harmanpreet Kaur’s future as captain of the team.
According to sources within the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the Indian board will meet head coach Amol Muzumdar and selectors to discuss the path forward, including whether a new person should take over the captaincy role.
India failed to qualify for the knockout stages after losing their first two group matches against Australia and New Zealand. Criticism has been leveled at Harmanpreet’s leadership during a campaign where India was expected to challenge for the title.
It is learnt that while the BCCI is satisfied with the support provided to the team, the early exit from the tournament means it is time to consider fresh leadership. Harmanpreet is expected to remain an important player, but her reign as captain could be coming to an end.
The potential change in captaincy is aimed at instilling a new direction and impetus to the team. Former India captain Mithali Raj also felt it may be time for the selectors to look beyond the experienced Harmanpreet and back younger players like Jemimah Rodrigues to lead the side in T20 cricket.
With another World Cup cycle set to begin, the BCCI does not want to delay decision making on the captaincy. An announcement on Harmanpreet’s future is expected soon after consultations with those involved with the women’s cricket set-up. All eyes will now be on who steps up as the next leader to guide India’s quest for a maiden T20 World Cup title.
