The Australian cricket team has been dealt a significant blow with the news that captain Meg Lanning will be absent from the upcoming women’s Ashes series. Lanning, one of the most decorated players in the game, will miss the series due to medical reasons and will remain at home for treatment.
In her absence, Alyssa Healy will be responsible for leading the team. CA has stated that Lanning will not be directly replaced, as players from the Australia A squad, who are also touring England, will be called upon if needed. The decision for Lanning to skip the Ashes series was made based on the board’s advice, considering an issue that requires management from her home.
Cricket Australia (CA) announced that Meg Lanning was asked to stay at home and manage her medical issue without providing a specific timeframe for her return. This marks the second time the 31-year-old has missed the Ashes, as a shoulder injury also ruled her out of the 2017-18 series on home soil. Before this, Lanning took an indefinite break from the game for personal reasons in August but returned triumphantly to lead Australia to victory in the T20 World Cup earlier this year in South Africa.
Shawn Flegler, CA’s Head of Performance for women’s cricket, expressed the team’s disappointment over Lanning’s absence but emphasized prioritizing her health. Flegler stated that Lanning understands the need to put her well-being first. Lanning will remain at home to make a swift return to the field, working closely with medical staff to ensure a full recovery.
“It’s an unfortunate setback for Meg, and she’s disappointed to have been ruled out of the Ashes. It’s a significant series for the team, and she’ll be missed, but she understands the need to put her health first. Meg will remain at home, continuing to work with medical staff to return to playing as soon as possible. We ask that Meg’s privacy is respected at this time.” Said CA’s Head of Performance, Shawn Flegler.
We’re all thinking of you, Meg ❤️ https://t.co/okGJ4v4Su4
— Cricket Australia (@CricketAus) May 27, 2023
Meg Lanning’s absence is keenly felt due to her remarkable accomplishments in the game. Lanning has etched her name in cricketing history with five T20 World Cup victories and two 50-over World Cup triumphs. Additionally, she led Australia to a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games last year, further solidifying her status as one of the game’s most successful players.
As Australia aims to retain the Ashes, Lanning’s absence poses a significant challenge for the team. Her leadership and batting prowess will undoubtedly be missed in the forthcoming test match from June 22-26 at Trent Bridge, as well as in the subsequent three Twenty20 matches and three one-day internationals that conclude the tour on July 18. The Australian team must regroup, adapt their strategies, and find collective strength to overcome this setback.
