Australia captain Meg Lanning Retires After 7 World Cup Wins
Legendary Australian cricket captain Meg Lanning has made the heartfelt decision to retire from international cricket, capping a remarkable career that saw her secure seven World Cup titles. The 31-year-old cricket sensation, who participated in six Tests, 103 one-day internationals, and 132 Twenty20 internationals, has announced her intent to continue playing in the domestic cricket circuit.
Lanning shared her feelings about this significant career transition, expressing, “The decision to step away from international cricket was a difficult one to make, but I feel now is the right time for me. I've been incredibly fortunate to enjoy a 13-year international career.”
Surrounded by family and friends outside the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, Meg Lanning opened up about the inner struggle she faced before making this choice. “I'm sad that it's finishing up, but I'm very much ready for something new,” Lanning said. “I feel like now I've got nothing left to achieve on the international stage. For me, I can't be half in or half out with anything, and I guess that's the decision.”
Overwhelmed with emotion, Lanning thanked her father, Wayne, and mother, Sue, who were present at her farewell press conference. Meg Lanning's unique journey began in Singapore, where she was born while her father worked as a banker there.
Throughout her illustrious international career, Lanning accomplished remarkable feats, amassing a total of 8,352 runs, including 17 centuries and 38 half-centuries, since her debut in 2010. Notably, in only her second One-Day International (ODI), she became the youngest Australian to score an international century at the age of 18 when she posted an unbeaten 104 against England, a record that still stands.
Lanning assumed the role of captain in 2014, becoming the youngest-ever skipper for the Australian women's cricket team at just 21. She led Australia in an impressive 182 matches, a record unmatched by any other women's cricket player. Her tenure as captain has contributed to Australia's status as one of the most successful international teams in women's cricket.
In her final international appearance, Lanning led Australia to victory in the 2023 T20 World Cup against South Africa, adding another title to her already illustrious career.
Cricket Australia chief executive Nick Hockley praised Meg Lanning, saying, “One of the finest cricketers Australia has produced, Meg's supreme achievements with the bat have been matched by her inspiring leadership. 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 that has helped revolutionize the game.”
Meg Lanning's decision marks the end of an era in Australian women's cricket, and she leaves behind a legacy that will inspire generations to come.
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