Meg Lanning retirement: Australian captain bows out after stellar 13-year international career

Meg Lanning has announced her retirement from international cricket, with the Australian captain set to bow out after a stellar 13-year career. 

The 31-year-old, who has won seven World Cups in the green and gold across ODI and T20 tournaments, represented her country in 241 international matches, amassing well over 8,000 runs. 

Lanning made her debut for Australia back in 2010 and took over the leadership role for all three formats in June 2014, becoming the most successful women's captain in history.

The right-handed Victorian batter holds the record for the most centuries in ODI history with 15 and remains three tons clear of New Zealand's Suzie Bates at the time of her retirement announcement. 

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Australian captain Meg Lanning announces retirement

In a statement on Thursday morning, Lanning reminisced on her career at the elite level and revealed her time in the Australian side has come to a close. 

“The decision to step away from international cricket was a difficult one to make, but I feel now is the right time for me," she said. 

“I’ve been incredibly fortunate to enjoy a 13-year international career, but I know now is the right time for me to move on to something new.

“Team success is why you play the game, I’m proud of what I have been able to achieve and will cherish the moments shared with teammates along the way.

“I'd like to thank my family, my teammates, Cricket Victoria, Cricket Australia and the Australian Cricketers' Association for their support to allow me to play the game I love at the highest level. 

“I also want to say a huge thank you to all the fans who have supported me throughout my international career.”

Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley congratulated the retiring champion on a glittering on-field career, which included three Belinda Clark Medal victories.

“On behalf of Australian Cricket, I would like to congratulate Meg on her incredible career as an Australian cricketer and all she has achieved as captain of the Australian women’s cricket team," he said. 

“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 which has helped revolutionise the game.

“Under Meg’s leadership, the Australian women’s cricket team has built a legacy of global dominance and has been at the forefront of growing the game and inspiring the next generation of cricketers all around the world.

“A seven-time World Cup winner and Commonwealth Games gold medallist, Meg retires from international cricket having achieved everything there is to achieve and we thank her for the immense contribution she has made.

“We look forward to celebrating Meg’s distinguished international career at an appropriate time.”

Lanning will continue to play in the Australian domestic competitions, including the WBBL and WNCL.

Meg Lanning career record