Harmanpreet Kaur and Mithali Raj stand as two of the most iconic figures in Indian women’s cricket, each leaving an indelible mark on the game with their distinctive styles, leadership, and immense skill. The question of who is better between Harmanpreet Kaur and Mithali Raj is complex and ultimately subjective, shaped by different metrics such as batting records, influence on Indian cricket, leadership qualities, and impact on women’s sports.
Career Achievements and Records
Mithali Raj is often heralded as one of the greatest female cricketers globally, with an illustrious career spanning over two decades. She has played 333 international matches, including 12 Tests, 232 ODIs, and 89 T20Is. Mithali is India’s leading run-scorer in women’s international cricket with over 7,800 runs in ODI cricket. Her batting average of nearly 50 in ODIs and 43.68 in Tests displays not only consistency but remarkable mastery and resilience. Known for her calm demeanor and textbook technique, she was also India’s longest-serving captain, guiding the team through many historic moments.
Harmanpreet Kaur, on the other hand, is renowned for her aggressive and flamboyant style that brings energy and dynamism to the Indian cricket team. She has been a game-changer, especially in the shorter formats. As of mid-2025, Harmanpreet has played 334 international matches, surpassing Mithali in appearances. She holds impressive milestones such as scoring seven ODI centuries (tying Mithali) and has been a crucial player in T20 World Cups, now jointly holding the record for the most runs by an Indian in Women’s T20 World Cup history with 726 runs. Harmanpreet is also known for her match-winning explosive innings, including a memorable 171* against Australia in the 2017 Women’s World Cup semi-final.
Playing Style and Impact
Mithali Raj’s batting style is classical and technically sound—a blend of patience and precision. She anchors innings, builds partnerships with meticulous shot selection, and thrives under pressure situations. She has been called the backbone of the Indian batting lineup for years and has consistently played long innings to stabilize her team’s position.
Conversely, Harmanpreet Kaur is a power-hitter and an aggressive stroke-maker whose playing style allows her to change the course of matches rapidly. Her ability to accelerate the innings during the middle and death overs has redefined India’s approach to limited-overs cricket. She brings flair and unpredictability that often unsettles bowlers and energizes her teammates and fans.
Leadership and Influence
Both players have captained the Indian team but in different eras and formats. Mithali led India for more than a decade, earning respect for her calm leadership and tactical acumen, which elevated Indian women’s cricket on the global stage. Her leadership culminated in India reaching the 2017 Women’s World Cup final, a landmark achievement.
Harmanpreet took over captaincy with a more aggressive leadership style, promoting a positive and fearless brand of cricket. She inspires young women cricketers and is instrumental in boosting the sport’s popularity through her performances and charismatic presence.
Contribution Beyond Records
Mithali Raj has been an inspiration for generations of cricketers because of her longevity and professionalism. She paved the way when women’s cricket had limited recognition and resources. Her journey symbolizes perseverance and dedication, inspiring millions beyond just cricket fans.
Harmanpreet Kaur represents the new wave of women’s cricket in India—bold, competitive, and media-savvy. She has raised the profile of women’s cricket with her iconic performances on high-visibility platforms, contributing to changing mindsets about women in sports.
Head-to-Head and Statistical Comparison
| Aspect | Mithali Raj | Harmanpreet Kaur |
|---|---|---|
| International Matches | 333 | 334 |
| Test Matches | 12 | 6 |
| ODI Runs | 7805 | 4000+ |
| T20I Runs | 2600+ | 2800+ |
| ODI Centuries | 7 | 7 |
| Batting Style | Classical, anchoring | Aggressive, power-hitting |
| Captaincy | Long-serving, tactical | Current, aggressive and inspiring |
| Record Highlight | Highest run-scorer for India, consistent performer | Most runs in Women’s T20 World Cup for India, match-winner in big games |
Conclusion: Who is Better?
The debate over who is better—Harmanpreet Kaur or Mithali Raj—is less about numbers and more about cricketing philosophy and impact. Mithali Raj represents consistency, technical excellence, and leadership, embodying the steady progress of Indian women’s cricket over decades.
Harmanpreet Kaur symbolizes energy, entertainment, and the modern aggressive approach that has brought a fresh zeal to the game, expanding its popularity and excitement.
In reality, both are legends in their own right, shining in different lights and complementing each other’s legacies in Indian cricket history. Comparing them as competitors misses the bigger picture—they are pillars building Indian women’s cricket to newer heights, each inspiring fans and young players in unique ways.
Choosing “who is better” depends on personal preference for style and values: classic solidity and leadership versus dynamic aggression and flair. Both deserve equal reverence in the pantheon of cricket greatness.
This nuanced understanding celebrates their varied contributions and acknowledges that Indian cricket is richer for having both Mithali Raj and Harmanpreet Kaur as trailblazers and icons.
