Star opener Smriti Mandhana has the temperament befitting the captaincy and her knack for consistency makes her an ideal candidate to lead India after Mithali Raj, said former captain Shantha Rangaswamy. The Mithali Raj-led side, who were runners-up in the last edition, lost to South Africa by three wickets to exit the showpiece early and cap an inconsistent show.
Even if she hasn’t stopped quitting, Mithali’s 23-year international career may have ended in defeat. Shantha said her pick for the next captain was Smriti rather than Indian star batter Harmanpreet Kaur.
“Mithali can continue if she wants… Smriti should lead. Harman is a proven match winner and star player, but the captain needs to take responsibility and play consistently well. Additional captain responsibilities may weigh on Harman,” Shantha was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.
“That will put additional strain on Harman. Smriti can handle this better.
India started as favorites and prepared perfectly for the tournament, playing South Africa, England, Australia and hosts New Zealand just before the tournament.
After starting with a win over Pakistan, India fell to New Zealand with a 62-round loss after being eliminated for 198.
They rebounded in the next game and defeated the West Indies by 155 runs, but suffered only two defeats to defending champions England and Australia.
Against England, they folded for just 134 to suffer a four-wicket loss.
“Expectations have been high since they finished second last. The results came from those who played consistently throughout. India, especially in the game against England, they were eliminated. Luck also played a part.
“England played poorly at first and then qualified again. Overall, India played well, there’s nothing to be ashamed of,” she said.
A no-ball from Deepti Sharma when she was in the wicket of the well-timed Mignon du Preez also turned the tide in the final against India as South Africa won a last-ball thriller.
“Today’s no-ball went against them too, luck played a role again. But they were fickle. If you look at the last year, Smriti and Mithali have been consistent,” she captioned.
