Why Responsibility Remains Central for Former India Women’s Captain

Even after stepping down as captain, Harmanpreet Kaur insists that the core values of responsibility and accountability remain integral to her identity. Reflecting on a tenure that spanned more than ten years, she says the experience taught her to handle both applause and scrutiny with equal poise.

Kaur recalls the early days of her captaincy, when expectations surged after the 2012 appointment. “Criticism hits hardest when people have high hopes,” she observed. “Missing our own benchmarks feels personal, and knowing supporters are watching adds another layer of pressure.”

She believes true leadership is not confined to a single individual. Throughout her career, Kaur worked to distribute decision‑making and confidence across the squad, encouraging each player to step up when needed. “Leadership should be a shared trait, not a solitary badge,” she asserted.

Beyond on‑field tactics, Kaur advocated for structural reforms: talent identification programs, enhanced training facilities, and mental‑health support for athletes. These measures aimed to professionalise women’s cricket and empower players to take ownership of their development.

Now, as she watches Smriti Mandhana take the reins, Kaur feels the transition is a continuation rather than an ending. “I’m thrilled to see a teammate I’ve grown with lead the side,” she said. “Our shared understanding will only strengthen the team’s future.”