Sydney, May 27 Australia’s quest to retain the Women’s Ashes in the UK has taken a huge hit with captain Meg Lanning ruled out of the tour.
Lanning has been withdrawn from the squad due to a medical issue, according to Cricket Australia which announced the news on Saturday morning.
Medical staff working with the Australian team have advised the skipper to stay at home as part of
her management, with a timeframe of her return at this point unknown.
Lanning took a mental health break late last year but returned to the national team in January and led Australia to their ICC Women’s T20 World Cup triumph in February, the ICC reported.
Australia’s Head of Performance (Women’s Cricket) Shawn Flegler says it’s an unfortunate setback for Lanning, though has stressed their support is behind the national captain on the road to a comeback.
“She’s obviously 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,” Flegler said.
“Meg will remain at home where she will continue to work with medical staff with the aim to return to playing as soon as possible,” she added.
Flegler and Cricket Australia have called for Lanning’s privacy to be respected at this time.
Alyssa Healy will captain the women’s team for the Ashes Series and deputised by Tahlia McGrath
as vice-captain.
Lanning will not be replaced in the squad as the Australia A team will be on a concurrent tour in the UK.
The Women’s Ashes will start with a one-off Test in Nottingham from June 22 then move into white-ball clashes with three T20Is and three ODIs as part of the multi-format series.
