Archive · 17 Sep 2026
Diana Edulji Urges Smriti Mandhana to Replace Harmanpreet Kaur
Diana Edulji thinks India should start preparing for a new women’s cricket captain.
She wants Smriti Mandhana to replace Harmanpreet Kaur soon.
Harmanpreet is 37 years old, according to the article.
Edulji says Harmanpreet could be close to 40 when the next ODI World Cup arrives.
She believes Mandhana needs enough time to learn and lead the team.
Edulji also wants two younger players to be developed as vice-captains.
Harmanpreet has recently led India to major victories, including the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup.
The suggestion is about planning for the team’s future while recognizing Harmanpreet’s achievements.
Former India player Diana Edulji wants Smriti Mandhana to become captain soon.
Edulji said Harmanpreet Kaur will be nearing 40 by the next ODI World Cup.
She believes Mandhana should receive an extended leadership opportunity before that tournament.
Edulji also suggested developing two youngsters as vice-captains.
Harmanpreet recently led India to an Asia Cup victory after winning the 2025 Women's ODI World Cup.
- Who
- Former India player Diana Edulji, current captain Harmanpreet Kaur, and vice-captain Smriti Mandhana.
- What
- Edulji has urged India to appoint Smriti Mandhana as women’s captain at the earliest.
- When
- The proposal follows India’s 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup win and most recent Asia Cup victory.
- Where
- India’s women’s national cricket team.
- Why
- Edulji cited Harmanpreet’s age and the need to give Mandhana leadership experience before the next ODI World Cup.
Earlier leadership transition
Continue with established captain
Timing of succession
Earlier leadership transition
Diana Edulji wants Smriti Mandhana to receive a long leadership run before Harmanpreet Kaur approaches 40 by the next ODI World Cup.
Continue with established captain
Harmanpreet Kaur remains the established captain and has recently led India to the Women's Asia Cup and 2025 Women's ODI World Cup titles.
Leadership development
Earlier leadership transition
Edulji supports giving Mandhana the captaincy and preparing two younger players as vice-captains.
Continue with established captain
The article highlights Harmanpreet's successful record but does not report a formal proposal from her or the cricket authorities to change the leadership.
- Proposed captain
- Smriti Mandhana
- Current captain
- Harmanpreet Kaur
- Harmanpreet's age
- 37
- Recent ICC title
- 2025 Women's ODI World Cup
- Recent regional title
- Women's Asia Cup
- Additional recommendation
- Develop two youngsters as vice-captains
- Source cited
- Mid-Day