Australia's Mutli-Time World Cup-Winning Captain Meg Lanning Retires From International Cricket

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Melbourne, November 9: Australia's multi-time World Cup-winning captain Meg Lanning on Thursday (November 9) has suddenly announced her retirement from international cricket with immediate effect at the age of 31.

The 31-year-old made her international debut in December 2010 and at 18 years old became the youngest Australian to score a century after smashing an unbeaten 104 against England in her third match.

Lanning became captain of the team at 21 and is one of the most decorated captains having overseen her side win seven World Cup crowns and a Commonwealth Games gold medal.

"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 in a statement.

"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.

"I'd like to thank my family, my teammates, Cricket Victoria, Cricket Australia and the Australian Cricketers' Association for their support to allow me to play the game I love at the highest level. I also want to say a huge thank you to all the fans who have supported me throughout my international career."

Since last year's CWG gold, Lanning had missed several series, also missing this year's tours of England, Ireland and also a home series against the West Indies.

The 31-year-old had also missed Australia's tour of India in 2022, opting to take a six-month break. Alyssa Healy was named the interim captain in her absence, but Australia will now look for permanent skipper as they embark on a multi-format tour to India next month.

Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley also thanked Lanning and prasied her contributions to Australian cricket, higlighting her success as a leader and player.

"One of the finest cricketers Australia has produced, Meg's supreme achievements with the bat have been matched by her inspiring leadership," Hockley said.

"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.

"Under Meg's leadership, the Australian women's cricket team has built a legacy of global dominance and has been at the forefront of growing the game and inspiring the next generation of cricketers all around the world.

"A seven-time World Cup winner and Commonwealth Games gold medallist, Meg retires from international cricket having achieved everything there is to achieve and we thank her for the immense contribution she has made. We look forward to celebrating Meg's distinguished international career at an appropriate time."

The three-time Belinda Clark medallist retires having won seven World Cups in total, amassing 8,352 runs from 241 international games., but will continue to play in the domestic circuit.

Lanning is currently representing Melbourne Stars in the Women's Big Bash League. She will also feature in the Women's Premier League (WPL), where she leads the Delhi Capitals.