The Indian Women’s Cricket Team is on the verge of a leadership change following its unexpected exit from the T20 World Cup group stages. With the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup approaching, BCCI is reportedly considering removing Harmanpreet Kaur from captaincy and appointing a new leader. As fans eagerly await the decision, Jemimah Rodrigues is emerging as a strong contender to replace her. Here’s why Jemimah might be the next captain instead of Smriti Mandhana, despite Mandhana being the team’s vice-captain.
Why Harmanpreet Kaur’s Captaincy May End Soon
Harmanpreet Kaur, who has been leading the team for several years, has seen ups and downs in her career. Now at the age of 35, BCCI seems to be looking for a younger captain to build a future-proof leadership structure for the upcoming Women’s ODI World Cup, set to be held in India in 2025. Her recent failure to lead the team into the semi-finals of the Women’s T20 World Cup has added pressure on the board to make some changes. While Smriti Mandhana, India’s current vice-captain, is a natural choice, Jemimah Rodrigues is proving to be a compelling option.
Jemimah Rodrigues: The Rising Star in the Captaincy Race
Smriti Mandhana has always been regarded as Harmanpreet’s likely successor. She has played in numerous big tournaments, including the ODI and T20 World Cups, and at 28, she has both youth and experience on her side. Mandhana is one of the most consistent performers and has leadership experience, making her an obvious choice. However, Jemimah Rodrigues, at just 24 years old, has caught the attention of cricket pundits and fans alike.
What sets Jemimah apart is not just her skills on the field, but her connection with her teammates. Former Indian captain Mithali Raj has publicly voiced support for Jemimah to be the next captain, citing her ability to keep the team bonded and maintain a positive, energetic atmosphere. She is known for her cheerful attitude, often entertaining her teammates and lifting morale.
The Experience Jemimah Brings
While Jemimah is younger than Mandhana, she has proven herself in international cricket, especially in the middle order. Having played in several high-pressure tournaments, Jemimah has gathered valuable experience that could translate well into captaincy. Her excellent fielding, fast pace on the field, and adaptability in different match situations make her a key asset to the team.
Why Age Could Be a Deciding Factor
One major point in Jemimah’s favor is her age. At 24, she has more potential for long-term captaincy than Mandhana, giving her the opportunity to lead the team for many years to come. Her youth, combined with her strong rapport with teammates, makes her an ideal choice to take the team into the future.
What’s Next for Team India?
As BCCI contemplates its decision, both Smriti Mandhana and Jemimah Rodrigues remain strong contenders for the captaincy. However, with a strong push for new leadership, Jemimah may be the one to take Indian women’s cricket into a new era. The next few months will be crucial in deciding who will lead the team for the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup. All eyes are now on BCCI’s final decision.
