Meg Lanning ruled out of the Ashes due to medical reasons

Australia captain Meg Lanning has been ruled out of the muli-format Ashes series in England due to a medical reason, Cricket Australia (CA) said in a release on Saturday (May 27). Alyssa Healy will lead the side in her absence.

“It’s an unfortunate setback for Meg and 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,” Shawn Flegler, CA’s Head of Performance, said.

31-year-old Lanning had a long break after leading Australia to a Gold medal win at the Commonwealth Games 2022 owing to her mental health well-being. She then came back to lead the side to yet another T20 World Cup title in South Africa 2023. She also captained Delhi Capitals in the inaugural Women’s Premier League (WPL) and took the team to the final of the tournament.

“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.We ask that Meg’s privacy is respected at this time,” Flegler added.

Healy, who captained the side in India during Lanning’s absence, will be assisted by Tahlia McGrath as the allrounder has been given the vice-captaincy duties.

The multi-format series is all set to start with five-day Test at Trent Bridge from June 2022. Australia won’t be naming any replacement for Lanning as the ‘A’ team will also be on tour in England and players can come in and out of the squad as and when required.

Australia are the current holders of the Ashes having won the multi-format series 12-4 at home. They will be looking to retain the trophy while England will be keen to reclaim the trophy for the first time since 2013.