‘Gave Indian cricket everything’ – Yuvraj Singh, Shikhar Dhawan pay tribute to Harmanpreet Kaur after captaincy exit

Former India cricketers Yuvraj Singh and Shikhar Dhawan paid tribute to Harmanpreet Kaur after she stepped down as the captain of the Indian women’s cricket team across all formats. The duo lauded the veteran batter for the way she handled the responsibility, pressure, and highs and lows that came with leading India over the years.

Harmanpreet announced her decision to relinquish the captaincy in an Instagram post on Tuesday, October 6. Her decision came shortly after she helped India win the gold medal in women’s cricket at the 2026 Asian Games, adding another major achievement to her leadership career.

Yuvraj, who shared a close association with Harmanpreet during his playing days, took to his Instagram story to acknowledge her contribution to Indian cricket. The former all-rounder highlighted the pressure that comes with captaincy and praised the 35-year-old for carrying the responsibility with pride.

“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,” wrote Yuvraj.

Harmanpreet has been one of the most influential figures in Indian women’s cricket and became the first Indian woman to lead the team to a 50-over World Cup title. Under her leadership, India also secured the women’s gold medal at the 2026 Asian Games.

Shikhar Dhawan lauds Harmanpreet for her leadership

Shikhar Dhawan also paid tribute to Harmanpreet, stressing that leadership goes beyond simply holding a title. The former India opener took to X to acknowledge the impact she has had on Indian cricket and wished her well for the next phase of her career.

“Leadership is never just about the title, it is about the impact you leave behind. @ImHarmanpreet, you have given Indian cricket a lot to be proud of. Wishing you the best for everything ahead!”

Harmanpreet’s decision brings an end to an all-format captaincy tenure that spanned several years. Having led India through major tournaments and some difficult phases, she leaves the role after another successful assignment with the Asian Games gold medal.

With Harmanpreet stepping down, the Indian team management will now have to decide who takes over the leadership across formats as the women’s side enters a new phase.