Ace Australian Women’s team skipper Meg Lanning has been ruled out of the upcoming edition of the Ashes 2023 against the arch-rivals England. Lanning is reportedly struggling with her mental health and has been ruled out due to medical reasons. Meg Lanning returned to the field in January after taking a brief and extended break to cope up with her mental health. After her comeback, she successfully led Australia to an ICC T20 World Cup triumph in South Africa in February. Post the conclusion of the World Cup, Lanning featured in the inaugural edition of the Women’s Premier League in India.
Cricket Australia (CA) released an official statement regarding Lanning’s health. A CA spokesperson stated that on the advice of the apex body’s medical staff, Lanning has been withdrawn from the Australian squad for the Ashes due to medical reasons. Lanning will be treated at home with continuous monitoring and a timeline for her due course to return will be ascertained soon.
Cricket Australia’s Head Fledger is disappointed with Meg Lanning’s absence in Ashes 2023
Cricket Australia’s Head of Performance for Women’s Cricket Shawn Flegler also addressed the media. Shawn mentioned that it is unfortunate to miss Lanning in such a vital series for the country. Furthermore, he stated that Lanning will too be disappointed but everyone here understands that health should always be put first. Concluding his address, Shawn mentioned that Lanning will continue to be treated at home to return to the field at the earliest and requested everyone to respect her privacy at this time. The loss of Lanning will be irreplaceable for Australia who will also struggle with a perfect combination in the other formats as well. Lanning is missing her second Ashes as she was previously ruled out during the 2017-18 season.
Alyssa Healy will lead Australia at the Ashes in the absence of Lanning. Tahlia McGrath has been appointed as her deputy. The Women’s Ashes 2023 will begin on June 22 with the One-Off Test at Trent Bridge followed by a 3-match T-20I series and as many as ODI’s.
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