Meg Lanning: Former Australia captain who will play for Lancashire in the T20 Blast

Lanning enjoyed a glittering international career for Australia after making her debut at the age of 18, scoring a century in only her second match against England.

She became captain at the age of 21 and would be part of a hugely successful team, winning two World Cups, five World T20 Championships and a Commonwealth Games gold medal.

The batsman has been a regular in the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) under the Melbourne Stars, and at the forefront of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) in India.

Lanning was Delhi Capitals’ top run-scorer during the inaugural 2023 season and led them to the final in the next two years before moving to UP Warriorz for the current edition.

She featured in The Hundred for London Spirit and Oval Invincibles, and will now play for Lancashire in a competition starting in late May.

“This is a very important signing for Lancashire Thunder, and for the county game as a whole,” Lancashire Women’s Cricket Director David Thorley said.

“Meg is not only one of the best hitters of her generation, but one of the most influential leaders ever to play in the women’s game.

“Her record as Australia’s captain speaks for itself, and her presence will have an immediate and lasting impact on our team and the club.”