In a move that has sent shockwaves through the world of cricket, Meg Lanning, the esteemed captain and celebrated figure of Australian women’s cricket, has made the difficult decision to retire from international cricket at the age of 31.
Lanning, who has been a stalwart in the international arena for over 13 years, announced her retirement effective immediately while currently leading Melbourne Stars in the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL).
The decision marks the end of a phenomenal career that saw Lanning lead Australia in a staggering 182 international matches, accumulating a total of 241 appearances across various formats.
Her statement regarding the retirement was poignant, asserting that while the decision was challenging, she believes it is the opportune moment to transition into a new chapter of her life.
“I’ve been incredibly fortunate to enjoy a 13-year international career, but I know now is the right time for me to move on to something new. Team success is why you play the game, I’m proud of what I have been able to achieve and will cherish the moments shared with teammates along the way,”
Lanning expressed in her official statement.
Debuting in 2010 at the age of 18, Lanning swiftly made a mark in the T20I format before expanding her influence across 132 T20Is, 103 ODIs, and featuring in six Test matches for Australia.
Notably, Lanning’s captaincy tenure, which commenced in 2014, reflected remarkable success, securing victories in 69 out of 78 ODIs, 76 out of 100 T20Is, and also clinching a Test win during her leadership.
The pinnacle of her captaincy saw Australia claim four T20 World Cup titles, an ODI World Cup, and the coveted gold at the Commonwealth Games last year.
Her absence from recent tours, however, became noticeable, prompting the shift in leadership.
While Lanning opted to take breaks and missed several series post the Commonwealth Games, her impact and legacy remain indelible.
Her batting prowess has been exemplary, holding records such as the youngest to score an international century and boasting the fastest century for Australia in Women’s ODIs.
Lanning’s contributions weren’t just limited to the international circuit; she also captained Delhi Capitals in the Women’s Premier League, leaving a lasting impression despite finishing as runners-up in the inaugural edition.
Acknowledging her immense contributions, Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley hailed Lanning as one of Australia’s finest cricketers.
He lauded her exceptional achievements with the bat and her inspiring leadership, emphasizing the profound impact she made, not only on the game but on future generations of cricketers worldwide.
As Lanning bids adieu to international cricket, the Australian cricket fraternity looks ahead, seeking a new captain to lead the team into the upcoming challenges, including the impending multi-format tour to India.
Lanning, on the other hand, remains a key figure in franchise and domestic cricket, continuing to display her cricketing prowess in other avenues.
Meg Lanning’s retirement leaves a void in Australian cricket, but her legacy as a formidable leader and an exceptional player will endure, inspiring and influencing the future of women’s cricket for years to come.
The cricketing world awaits the appropriate celebration of Lanning’s illustrious international career, a tribute fitting for a player of her caliber and impact.