BCCI considers captaincy change for Indian Women’s Cricket team after World Cup setback
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly contemplating a significant leadership change for the Indian women’s cricket team following their disappointing performance in the T20 World Cup in the UAE. Harmanpreet Kaur, who has captained the team since 2016, may be replaced as the team failed to progress beyond the group stages, marking one of their poorest performances in recent years.
BCCI to Discuss Captaincy Transition
Sources suggest that the BCCI is planning to meet with the selection committee and head coach Amol Muzumdar to discuss Harmanpreet Kaur’s future as captain. This meeting is expected to take place before the squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against New Zealand, beginning on October 24, is finalized.
While Harmanpreet has been a key player for the team, her leadership is now under review, particularly after India’s failure to advance in the World Cup. Harmanpreet first took over the captaincy in 2016, leading the team through several ICC tournaments, but they have struggled to secure a major title under her leadership.
Performance Issues in the T20 World Cup
Despite entering the T20 World Cup with a strong squad, India’s campaign was derailed after an opening match loss to New Zealand. A subsequent defeat to Australia sealed their fate, leaving the team with only two wins from four matches. Although Harmanpreet performed well with the bat, the team’s inconsistency, particularly in the batting lineup, was a recurring issue throughout the tournament.
India had undergone extensive preparations for the tournament, including early arrival in the UAE to acclimatize to the conditions. However, familiar issues such as batting collapses and an inability to handle pressure once again surfaced, leading to their early exit.
Future of Harmanpreet’s Leadership
While Harmanpreet is expected to remain an important member of the Indian squad, her role as captain is now uncertain. “The BCCI will certainly discuss whether to have a new captain on board going ahead,” said a source within the Indian board. The decision on whether to appoint a new captain is expected soon, with an eye on the upcoming 50-over World Cup to be hosted by India.
Possible Changes in Support Staff
In addition to the captaincy change, there is speculation that some support staff contracts may not be renewed after the World Cup. The Indian board has provided the team with all requested resources, but there is a growing belief within the BCCI that a new approach may be needed to elevate Indian women’s cricket to the next level.
As the team looks ahead to future tournaments, the BCCI’s decision regarding Harmanpreet Kaur’s leadership will be closely watched, and whether the team embarks on a new chapter with a different captain at the helm remains to be seen.