Indian women’s cricket has seen a monumental rise in the last decade, and one of the most prominent faces leading this revolution is Harmanpreet Kaur. Known for her aggressive batting, fearless captaincy, and match-winning performances, she has carved out a legacy that continues to inspire young athletes across the nation.
In this blog, we explore the life, career, and achievements of Harmanpreet Kaur — the face of modern Indian women’s cricket.
👶 Early Life & Background
Born on March 8, 1989, in Moga, Punjab, Harmanpreet Kaur Bhullar was raised in a sporting family. Her father, Harmandar Singh Bhullar, was a volleyball and basketball player who introduced her to cricket. From playing with boys on dusty fields to earning her first India call-up, her early years were marked by determination and discipline.
Her idol growing up? None other than Virender Sehwag, whose fearless stroke play inspired her own aggressive style.
🚀 Domestic & Early International Career
Harmanpreet made her India debut in 2009 against Pakistan during the Women’s World Cup. Though she didn’t get many opportunities initially, her promise was evident.
She made a significant mark in 2012, scoring her maiden ODI century against England. It was only the beginning of a series of strong performances that would establish her as a reliable all-rounder.
🏏 Domestic Teams:
- Punjab
- Railways (Indian Railways team)
- Supernovas (Women’s T20 Challenge)
- Mumbai Indians (WPL)
💥 Rise to Stardom: The 2017 World Cup Knock
The turning point of her career (and Indian women’s cricket) came in the 2017 ICC Women’s World Cup semi-final against Australia. Harmanpreet scored a blistering 171 off 115 balls*, one of the greatest knocks in women’s ODI history.
This match single-handedly changed the perception of women’s cricket in India and made her a household name overnight.
🧢 Captaincy & Leadership
Harmanpreet took over the T20I captaincy from Mithali Raj and later became the full-time ODI captain as well. Her leadership is defined by her aggressive tactics, support for young talent, and never-back-down attitude.
Under her captaincy:
- India reached the final of the 2020 Women’s T20 World Cup.
- Women’s cricket in India entered a new era of professionalism and popularity.
🎯 Career Highlights & Statistics (as of mid‑August 2025)
As of 30 July 2025, Harmanpreet’s international stats reflect her experience and consistency:
Batting Stats:
- ODIs: 135 matches | 3,850+ runs | Avg: 38+ | 5 centuries, 19 fifties
- T20Is: 155+ matches | 2,800+ runs | Avg: 27+ | SR: 115+
- Tests: Limited appearances, but a reliable middle-order presence
Bowling Stats:
- Useful part-time off-spinner
- 30+ wickets in ODIs and T20Is combined
Notable Awards:
- Arjuna Award (2017)
- Padma Shri (2023)
- ICC Women’s Player of the Month
- Captained Mumbai Indians Women to victory in the inaugural WPL (2023)
🏆 Domestic & WPL Glory
Harmanpreet played a crucial role in shaping the Women’s Premier League (WPL). As captain of Mumbai Indians Women, she led the team to WPL 2023 title win and was named Player of the Tournament.
Her presence in franchise cricket (including stints in WBBL & The Hundred) also helped Indian women cricketers gain global exposure.
💡 Impact on Indian Women’s Cricket
Harmanpreet’s fearless batting and her confidence as a leader have changed how fans view women’s cricket in India. Young players like Shafali Verma and Jemimah Rodrigues often credit her for leading by example.
Her 2017 World Cup knock is still considered the moment that triggered the women’s cricket revolution in India.
🧘♀️ Off the Field
- Known for her calm demeanor
- Advocates fitness and mental well-being
- Often engages in grassroots initiatives to promote girls’ participation in sports
She continues to motivate young girls, especially from rural backgrounds, to pursue their cricketing dreams.
🔍 Lesser-Known Facts
- Harmanpreet is the first Indian woman to play 100 T20 internationals.
- She once played a men’s cricket match in Punjab as a teenager and scored heavily.
- Her cricketing gear from the 2017 World Cup was preserved in Lord’s Museum.
📈 Current Form (2025)
As of mid‑2025, Harmanpreet Kaur remains a vital part of India’s ODI and T20I setup. She is leading India’s preparation for the Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 and recently scored a match-winning 80* vs South Africa.
Also Check : Smriti Mandhana Biography
📌 Final Thoughts
Harmanpreet Kaur’s journey from Moga to becoming the captain of the Indian women’s team is nothing short of inspiring. She broke barriers, created records, and brought Indian women’s cricket into the limelight. Her contribution, both as a player and leader, will be remembered for generations to come.
Whether it’s her 171* or her aggressive style of captaincy, Harmanpreet has shown the world that Indian women cricketers are second to none.
❓FAQs About Harmanpreet Kaur
March 8, 1989, in Moga, Punjab, India.
171* vs Australia in the 2017 World Cup semi-final.
She captains the Mumbai Indians Women team.
She has received the Arjuna Award and the Padma Shri for her contributions to cricket.
Over 155 T20Is, making her one of the most experienced players in the format.