Smriti Mandhana Says She Is Ready for India Women's Captaincy

Smriti Mandhana was at her best in India’s historic Test win at Lord’s, scoring half-centuries in both innings to play a key role in the memorable win over England.

In an interview, she reflected on India’s historic success at Lord’s, the lessons learned from repeated disappointments in the T20 World Cup, the impact of the WPL and why she believes she is ready to lead India whenever the opportunity arises.

Ready for India Women’s Captaincy

Mandhana has said that she is fully prepared to take over from Harmanpreet Kaur whenever required, and is confident of leading the Indian vice-captain national team. The left-handed opener, who has been one of the main pillars of Indian women’s cricket for the past decade, believes that her time as Harmanpreet’s vice-captain has given her the necessary experience to take over the captaincy.

“Yes, of course. I am ready,” Mandhana said when asked if she is ready to lead India in Harmanpreet’s absence.

Her confidence is bolstered by her strong record as captain. The 29-year-old has led India in 18 T20Is and four ODIs, winning 15 matches in both formats. India have also won all four ODIs under her leadership, cementing her claim as a leading option to take over even in Harmanpreet’s absence.

Mandhana Reflects on Historic Lord’s Test Victory

Over the years, Smriti Mandhana has become one of India’s most reliable batsmen and a player capable of leading the team in pressure situations. Her long stint as vice-captain has helped her gain experience in leadership, team management and decision-making on the field, regularly stepping in whenever Harmanpreet misses games.

Her comments came on the heels of India’s successful tour of England, which ended with a memorable victory in the first women’s Test at Lord’s.

Mandhana recalled India’s famous victory at Lord’s Cricket Ground, where the visitors registered a dominant 270-run win over England. India declared their innings at 341 for seven in the second innings after scoring 285 in the first innings, then bowled out England for 170 and 186 to secure a historic victory.

“Being a part of the first women’s Test at Lord’s and more importantly winning it was amazing. It was special to contribute to a historic win for India. As a child, we all dreamt of playing Test cricket, so doing it at Lord’s made it even more memorable,” Mandhana said.

Also Read: Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma ODI Record in England: Full Stats

Strong Performances Reinforce Leadership Credentials

Mandhana made a vital contribution with the bat, scoring 83 runs in the first innings and a brilliant half-century in the second. Her performance at the top gave India a strong start and played a key role in the team’s biggest win in women’s cricket.

The victory at Lord’s came as a timely boost after India suffered a disappointing T20I series defeat to England and failed to reach the semi-finals of the Women’s T20 World Cup following their defeat to Australia.

For Mandhana, the victory at Lord’s was proof of how far Indian women’s cricket has come. And with Harmanpreet leading the team as captain, the team also benefits from the stability of an experienced vice-captain and someone ready to take charge at any moment.

Asian Games Present the Next Opportunity

The match schedule for the 2026 Asian Games has also been announced, with the women’s matches scheduled to be held in Japan from September 17 to 22. The tournament will give the Indian women’s team another chance to make their mark on the continental stage after their memorable victory at Lord’s.

Harmanpreet Kaur will captain the team, while Smriti Mandhana has been appointed as the vice-captain of the Indian team. Mandhana’s growing leadership experience, consistent performances and successful record as vice-captain make her a natural vice-captain for India in Harmanpreet Kaur’s absence.

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