Harmanpreet Kaur may have stepped away from captaincy, but her impact on Indian women’s cricket was impossible to miss as tributes poured in from across the cricket fraternity on Tuesday.India’s only women’s World Cup-winning captain announced her decision to step down as skipper across all three formats, bringing an end to a leadership tenure that saw India lift their maiden Women’s World Cup title and win Asian Games gold.Among those to pay tribute were former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh, current opener Shafali Verma and former India opener Shikhar Dhawan, who took to Instagram to acknowledge Harmanpreet’s contribution.
‘You gave Indian cricket everything’: Yuvraj
Yuvraj, who like Harmanpreet hails from Punjab, shared a picture of the 37-year-old holding the 2025 Women’s World Cup trophy.“You gave Indian cricket everything as captain, Harman. The responsibility, the pressure, the highs and the lows, you carried it all with pride. Well done for everything you’ve done for the team and for the nation,” Yuvraj wrote.
Shafali recalls Harmanpreet’s support
Shafali, who made her India debut under Harmanpreet’s leadership, shared a more personal message for her former captain.“Since the day I made my debut, you’ve always been there for me, on and off the field. From guiding me through the early days to standing by me through everything, I’ve always known I could count on you, Harman di, your contribution to Indian women’s cricket is something that will always be remembered. You’ve led us through some incredible moments and helped shape the team we are today. Thank you for everything, captain,” Shafali wrote.
Dhawan hails Harmanpreet’s legacy
Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan also joined the tributes, highlighting the impact Harmanpreet has had on Indian cricket.“Leadership is never just about the title, it’s about the impact you leave behind. Harmanpreet, you’ve given Indian cricket a lot to be proud of. Wishing you the best for everything ahead!” Dhawan posted on Instagram.
Harmanpreet steps down after historic run
Harmanpreet’s decision came after a BCCI review meeting in Guwahati to assess the women’s team’s recent trajectory. The meeting was chaired by BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia and attended by Harmanpreet, vice-captain Smriti Mandhana and head coach Amol Muzumdar. Harmanpreet said she had done her duty as captain and was now ready to “play for the love of the game again.” She will continue to represent India as a player.Harmanpreet leaves the leadership role having overseen two landmark achievements: India’s first Women’s World Cup title in November 2025 and Asian Games gold last month.
