India’s first-ever ICC Women’s World Cup win has stirred joy across the nation, but former Indian captain Shantha Rangaswamy believes it’s also the perfect time for introspection. In a candid interview with PTI, Rangaswamy suggested that the BCCI should replace Harmanpreet Kaur as captain and hand the reins to Smriti Mandhana, calling the move “long overdue.”
“It’s overdue. Because Harman, as a batter and a fielder, is brilliant. But tactically, she can fumble at times,” Rangaswamy said. “I feel she can contribute more if she’s without the burden of captaincy.”
Mandhana Backed for All-Format Leadership
Rangaswamy, who led India in the 1970s and 80s, emphasized that the change should not be viewed as a reaction to the World Cup success but as strategic planning for future tournaments. With the 2029 ODI World Cup and the 2026 T20 World Cup in the UK on the horizon, she believes Mandhana is ready to take charge across formats.
“Smriti should be made captain in every format. You need to plan for the future World Cups as well,” Rangaswamy added, stressing the need for a clear leadership roadmap to sustain India’s recent momentum.
Change After Success Could Be Positive
Acknowledging that leadership transitions are often controversial after major wins, Rangaswamy said such decisions can still be received positively if made with foresight.
“When change comes after a success like this, it’s easier to accept. In the interest of Indian cricket and in Harman’s own interest, she should focus on batting. She still has three to four years of top-level cricket left, and freeing her from captaincy could bring out the best in her,” she said.
Drawing comparisons with the men’s team, Rangaswamy noted how selectors moved on from Rohit Sharma even after his Champions Trophy victory earlier this year, underscoring the importance of long-term planning over emotional decisions.
Bowling & Fielding Need Attention
While celebrating India’s World Cup heroics, Rangaswamy also highlighted the team’s bowling and fielding as areas needing improvement.
“In our days, batting was the weaker link. Now it’s solid, but bowling remains a concern. Fielding too needs to improve,” she observed. “Australia lost only because their bowling wasn’t strong enough. Pakistan and Bangladesh actually had better bowling attacks.”
A Win That Will Inspire Generations
Rangaswamy concluded on a hopeful note, predicting that India’s World Cup victory will transform the future of women’s cricket in the country.
“Ten years down the line, you’ll see the massive impact of this win. It will inspire millions of girls to pick up a bat and ball,” she said, also praising chief selector Neetu David and her panel for crafting a winning combination.
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