Harmanpreet Kaur
The captain of India's women's cricket team, known for aggressive batting and match-winning innings, honoured with the Padma Shri in 2026.
Harmanpreet Kaur Bhullar is one of the leading figures in Indian women’s cricket, as a batter and as captain. In 2026 she was named for the Padma Shri in the field of sports, from Punjab [1].
From Punjab to the national team
Harmanpreet was born in Punjab on 8 March 1989 [2]. She came up through grassroots cricket in the state and went on to captain India [2].
Batter and leader
She is known for attacking stroke play and for innings that win matches [2]. She has represented India in international tournaments across all formats, and her performances on the biggest stages have inspired many girls to take up cricket as a career [2].
As captain she has led the team through major international series and tournaments [2].
Beyond the field
Her citation credits her with raising the profile of women’s cricket in India and abroad, and with speaking up for women in sport [2].
Sources
- [1] Padma Awards 2026: list of awardees — Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India. Accessed 11 October 2026.
- [2] Padma Awards 2026 investiture ceremony brochure: citation for Harmanpreet Kaur — Press Information Bureau, Government of India. Accessed 12 October 2026.
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