Harmanpreet Kaur will captain India in the upcoming Women’s T20 World Cup, marking her fifth time in the role. The squad was announced on Saturday as India prepares to chase its first T20 world title.
The tournament will be held in England and Wales from June 12. India will begin its campaign against Pakistan in Birmingham on June 14. The team is placed in Group 1 alongside Australia, South Africa, Bangladesh, and the Netherlands.
Selectors have shown strong faith in Harmanpreet Kaur, who remains a key figure in Indian women’s cricket. At 37, she brings experience and leadership to the side. She is the only Indian player to have featured in all previous T20 World Cups since 2009.
India’s squad also includes some notable returns. Wicketkeeper-batter Yastika Bhatia and spinner Radha Yadav are back in the T20 setup. Their inclusion adds depth and balance to the team.
Young talent has also been rewarded. Uncapped fast bowler Nandani Sharma earned a place after strong performances in the 2026 Women’s Premier League. She picked up 17 wickets while playing for Delhi Capitals.
Smriti Mandhana has been named vice-captain. She will support Harmanpreet Kaur in leading the team. The batting unit also includes players like Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, and Deepti Sharma.
India recently faced a setback in a T20 series against South Africa, losing 4-1. However, the team will play a three-match warm-up tournament against England before the World Cup. This will help them prepare for the main event.
India’s best performance in the T20 World Cup came in 2020, when they finished as runners-up. Last year, under Harmanpreet Kaur, the team achieved success by winning the ODI World Cup. This has boosted confidence ahead of the T20 competition.
The final of the tournament is scheduled for July 5 at Lord’s. Following the T20 event, India will host England for a one-off Test match starting July 10.
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The squad announcement reflects a mix of experience and youth. With Harmanpreet Kaur leading the side, India will aim to deliver a strong performance and compete for their first Women’s T20 World Cup title.
