Mithali Raj Advocates for Smriti Mandhana as Future Captain of India’s ODI and Test Teams
Former Indian cricket captain Mithali Raj believes it’s time for Smriti Mandhana to step into the leadership role for India’s ODI and Test teams, especially after Harmanpreet Kaur. Mithali feels Mandhana should have taken on this responsibility a few years ago.
Following India’s early exit from the Women’s T20 World Cup, Mithali shared her thoughts, stating that while Harmanpreet’s performance as captain is under scrutiny, her future shouldn’t be judged based solely on another tournament loss. Instead, selectors must evaluate her fitness and form as well as her fit within India’s strategy moving forward.
India’s failure to reach the semi-finals for the second consecutive T20 World Cup has raised questions about Harmanpreet’s leadership, despite her leading the team to a historic ODI World Cup win last year. Mithali acknowledged the disappointment but emphasized that one tournament’s outcome shouldn’t determine the captaincy.
“Not reaching the semifinals again is disappointing, but it’s not the only factor in deciding whether to change the captain,” she said.
Mithali pointed out the concerns regarding Harmanpreet’s recurring fitness issues. “In the last couple of years, she has often needed physio during games. A captain should ideally be fit and available for all matches, but unfortunately, she has faced challenges with her fitness,” Mithali noted.
She also highlighted Harmanpreet’s batting performance in recent international tournaments, stating that her scoring patterns indicate a need for improvement.
Mithali believes that discussions about the captaincy should also address whether Harmanpreet fits into the team’s plans for future World Cups. “Selectors need to consider if she should be part of our strategy for the upcoming ODI and T20 World Cups.”
Importantly, Mithali stressed that the responsibility for India’s patterns of failure in ICC tournaments shouldn’t fall solely on the captain’s shoulders. “If the T20 World Cup didn’t go well, changing the captain isn’t the only solution. The coach also shares accountability for selections made,” she added.
Mandhana’s Leadership Potential
Mithali is clear about her choice for the captaincy in longer formats: Smriti Mandhana. She emphasized that Mandhana has the experience necessary to lead both the ODI and Test teams, pointing out that this opportunity should have come sooner.
“I thought Smriti would be leading in the ODI format two or three years ago. Given her experience now, she should definitely take charge of the ODI and Test formats,” Mithali said.
Youth Leadership in T20Is
While advocating for Mandhana in the longer formats, Mithali believes it may be time to look to younger players for the T20I captaincy. She suggested Shafali Verma as a strong candidate, noting her successful leadership in the Under-19 World Cup, and also mentioned Jemimah Rodrigues as another viable option.
“Shafali has proven herself in T20s, and with her experience in the U-19 World Cup, she would be a great choice,” Mithali remarked. She added that it’s vital to allow new leaders time to adapt to their roles.
Mithali expressed concern that the team hasn’t done enough to nurture future leaders, especially given Shafali’s achievements.
Fitness Challenges Persist
Beyond captaincy, Mithali raised concerns about fitness levels in the team, stating that they influence both the bowling performance and overall fielding quality.
“Fast bowling combines skill and fitness, and we sometimes select players who are still adapting to the rigors of the game. Furthermore, fielding improvement hinges on individual commitment outside of national camps,” she explained.
Mithali also highlighted the need for India to cultivate more capable finishers, like wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh, emphasizing that a strong lower order is crucial for securing victories in ICC tournaments.
As India looks ahead, Mithali’s insights offer valuable perspective on the future direction of women’s cricket in the country, urging for strategic planning and focused development of players and leaders alike.
