MS Dhoni is among the finest captains in the history of international cricket. In fact, such is his popularity and influence that his jersey number 7 is almost as iconic as the man himself. Many cricketers, rookies or veterans, love that number. So did Harmanpreet Kaur, although the reason wasn't related to Dhoni. However, in November 2024, Harmanpreet opted to change her jersey number.
From no.7, Harmanpreet's new jersey number became no.23 and it was unveiled in November 2024 during the reveal of India's new set of kits. Why the change? Famous numerologist Sanjay B Jumaani had recommended Harmanpreet to make this change to improve the luck factor in her professional career.
For far too long, Harmanpreet and India weren't getting the ultimate glory in cricket - the World Cup - be it in any format. India were improving, no doubt, but weren't able to cross the final hurdle. Harmanpreet was also hoping to up a gear with her batting. Regardless of whether the jersey numer change was a factor or not, Harmanpreet had a perfect 2025 in cricket.
Winning her second WPL title as captain for Mumbai Indians was just the start and taking India to their first-ever World Cup in women's cricket became undoubtedly her greatest moment till date. With the bat, the 36-year-old played critical knocks, especially in ODIs and the innings in the record chase during the semifinal against Australia will be remembered forever.
Harmanpreet ended 2025 with 606 runs in ODIs at an average of 35.64 and strike-rate of 96.96 in the 50-over format. The T20I numbers are relatively underwhelming but India played just nine games in the shortest format this year due to the focus on ODI cricket. It was a year where Harmanpreet arguably batted at the peak of her powers, all this at an age which is considered to be the fag end of the career.
The Indian captain signed off the year with a brilliant fifty in the final match of the year against Sri Lanka in Thiruvananthapuram. Even as India struggled for momentum and slipped to 77/5 in the 11th over, Harmanpreet produced a superbly paced 68 off 43 deliveries to lead India's fightback. Arundhati Reddy and Amanjot Kaur also struck cameos to push India to a big total of 175. Harmanpreet ensured a fitting finish to her dream year in international cricket.
