Australia captain Meg Lanning ruled out of women’s Ashes
Australia women’s captain Meg Lanning has been ruled out of the summer’s Ashes tour for medical reasons.
A statement from Cricket Australia said Lanning, 31, who returned to cricket in January after a six-month mental health break, was “withdrawn from the squad due to a medical issue requiring treatment from home”. .
Shawn Flegler, Head of Women’s Cricket Performance at Cricket Australia, said: “It’s an unfortunate setback for Meg and she’s obviously disappointed to be left out of the Ashes; It’s a significant series for the team and we will miss her, but she understands her health must come first.
“Meg will stay at home and continue to work with the medical staff with the aim of getting back playing as soon as possible.
“We ask that Meg’s privacy be respected at this time.”
Wicketkeeper batsman Alyssa Healy will lead the team during the Ashes clashes against England, with all-rounder Tahlia McGrath as vice-captain.
Lanning, who captained Australia in the Twenty20 World Cup in March, will not be replaced in the squad by Australian A-players, who are touring around England at the same time and available when needed.
The multi-format Ashes series begins with a one-off test in Nottingham on June 22 with three T20s and three ODIS.
