Australia captain Meg Lanning has announced her international retirement after 13 years at the highest level of cricket. Lanning, 31, is Australia women's greatest run scorer and won seven World Cups, including five as skipper.
“The decision to step away from international cricket was a difficult one to make, but I feel now is the right time for me,” Lanning said. She represented Australia in 241 matches, scoring a combined 8,352 runs. Lanning scored 17 centuries across six Tests, 103 ODIs and 132 T20I, averaging 53.21 in one-day games.
She missed this year's Ashes with England for medical reasons. Her absence from the tour of England followed a break from cricket for her mental health in 2022, before she returned in February 2023 to lead her side to victory at the T20 World Cup.
“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,” Lanning added.
“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.”
Her retirement ends her 182-game spell as Australia captain over a 10-year period.
Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley said: “One of the finest cricketers Australia has produced, Meg's supreme achievements with the bat have been matched by her inspiring leadership. “As one of the best players in the world over a long period of time, Meg has made an immeasurable impact and led a generation which has helped revolutionise the game.”
Lanning will continue to play in domestic competitions, including the ongoing Women's Big Bash League with the Melbourne Stars, and for Victoria in the Women's National Cricket League.
— CutC by bbc.com
