India women's cricket team captain Harmanpreet Kaur was not part of the playing XI for the first T20I against England in Chelmsford on May 28, 2026. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed that Kaur was ruled out due to a niggle, and Smriti Mandhana led the team in her absence.
Reason for Harmanpreet Kaur's Absence
The BCCI stated that Kaur experienced discomfort during a training session, and the team management decided to rest her as a precautionary measure. The decision was made to ensure she recovers fully for the remaining matches of the series. Mandhana, the vice-captain, took over the leadership role for the opening game.
Impact on the Match
India won the toss and elected to bowl first in the first T20I. The team management made one change, with Shafali Verma returning to the side. England, meanwhile, fielded a strong lineup. The absence of Kaur, a key batter and leader, was a significant talking point ahead of the match.
Kaur's injury is not believed to be serious, and she is expected to be available for the second T20I. The series is crucial for both teams as they prepare for the upcoming World Cup. India will look to build momentum under Mandhana's captaincy in Kaur's absence.
