Women’s Ashes 2023: Alyssa Healy to lead Australia with Meg Lanning ruled out due to ‘medical issue’

Meg Lanning, the captain of Australia, has withdrawn from the upcoming Women’s Ashes tour of England owing to health concerns, Cricket Australia announced on Saturday. Alyssa Healy will now serve as the team’s captain.

Lanning was reportedly requested to stay at home to take care of the situation, and Cricket Australia offered no timetable for her return. The 31-year-old has now missed the Ashes twice, following her absence from the home 2017–18 series due to a shoulder issue. Prior to re-joining the team and leading Australia to the Women’s 20-20 World Cup final in South Africa earlier this year, Lanning had likewise taken an extended leave from the sport in August for personal reasons.

‘A significant series for the team and she’ll be missed’ – Shawn Flegler

“It’s an unfortunate setback for Meg and she’s obviously disappointed to have been ruled out of the Ashes,” said Shawn Flegler, Head of Performance for women’s cricket, Cricket Australia. “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 where she will continue to work with medical staff with the aim to return to playing as soon as possible.”

Lanning has won the Women’s 20-20 World Cup five times and the Women’s 50-over World Cup twice, making her one of the most accomplished players in the sport. She also helped Australia win gold at the 2014 Commonwealth Games.

Lanning wouldn’t be replaced in the team, according to Cricket Australia. This is because Australia, additionally, has a squad on tour in the United Kingdom, so players might be recalled if necessary. Australia, which is attempting to win back the Ashes, will play England in a test match at Trent Bridge from June 22 to June 26, followed by three Twenty20 games and three one-day internationals, with the tour coming to an end on July 18.