Shafali over Jemimah: Smriti Mandhana explains India's T20I vice-captaincy decision

October 16, 2026

India’s women’s cricket team has named Shafali Verma as the vice-captain for T20 Internationals, a decision Smriti Mandhana has defended by praising the 19-year-old’s explosive talent and rapid growth. Mandhana, who took over as India’s captain across formats following Harmanpreet Kaur’s retirement, cited Verma’s dominance against Australia’s bowling attack during her debut series as a defining moment.

She also highlighted Verma’s maturity in recent months, including her pivotal 87-run knock in the 2025 Women’s World Cup final against South Africa, where she also claimed two key wickets. Despite Jemimah Rodrigues’ eight years of international experience—including leading Delhi Capitals to a WPL runners-up finish this season—Mandhana opted for Verma, emphasizing her ability to anchor innings beyond the powerplay, as seen in the Asia Cup and Asian Games.

Deepti Sharma, meanwhile, has been appointed vice-captain for ODIs. Verma, who has amassed over 3,300 T20I runs since her 2018 debut, will now focus on India’s upcoming home series against Zimbabwe before a tour of South Africa later this year.