Dhoni Mentored Kohli, Now BCCI Wants Harmanpreet to Guide New Captain Smriti Mandhana

BCCI Wants Harmanpreet Kaur to Mentor Smriti Mandhana, Following Dhoni-Kohli Model

When MS Dhoni stepped down as captain of the Indian men’s cricket team, Virat Kohli took over the leadership role with Dhoni continuing to play a crucial part in guiding him. Despite relinquishing the captaincy, Dhoni remained an influential presence on the field, helping Kohli with field placements, DRS decisions and bowling changes.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) hopes to see a similar transition in the women’s team, with former captain Harmanpreet Kaur supporting new skipper Smriti Mandhana as she takes charge.

Harmanpreet recently handed over the captaincy to Mandhana following a successful stint as leader. Mandhana’s first assignment in the new role is the home series against Zimbabwe. However, Harmanpreet remains part of the squad, a development that has pleased BCCI president Mithun Manhas.

Speaking to Sportstar, Manhas stressed the importance of having an experienced senior player around when a new captain takes over. He believes that a leadership transition works best when the outgoing skipper continues to provide guidance and support.

“I have always believed that the baton should be passed on when you have somebody senior around to guide them,” Manhas said. “Because captaincy is not easy, no matter how experienced you are.”

Manhas pointed to the Indian men’s team’s leadership history as an example of how such transitions can benefit a side. When Dhoni became captain, Sourav Ganguly was available to guide him. Dhoni later offered similar support to Kohli and Rohit Sharma.

Kohli and Rohit, in turn, are now helping Shubman Gill settle into his responsibilities as captain, continuing the tradition of experienced players supporting the next generation of leaders.

‘Harmanpreet Will Be an Asset for Smriti’

Manhas believes Harmanpreet’s experience will prove valuable to Mandhana, particularly when the new captain encounters challenging situations or faces difficult decisions on the field.

“There will be situations when you have to make decisions and you are confused. So, I think Harmanpreet will be an asset for Smriti,” Manhas said.

Rather than offering a detailed explanation of Mandhana’s appointment, the BCCI president highlighted the importance of the support system around her. With Harmanpreet continuing in the squad, Mandhana will have access to an experienced leader who understands the demands of international cricket and the pressures of captaincy.

The BCCI’s approach reflects a broader leadership philosophy: passing the captaincy baton does not mean the outgoing skipper must step away from the team’s decision-making environment. Instead, retaining experienced players can help new captains navigate difficult moments while ensuring continuity within the squad.