Meg Lanning Joins Lancashire Ahead of Manchester Super Giants Stint

Australia’s former captain Meg Lanning has signed with Lancashire Thunder for the upcoming Women’s Vitality Blast, further strengthening the county’s squad ahead of the English domestic season.

Lanning, 33, retired from international cricket in 2023 after one of the most decorated careers in the women’s game. During her tenure as Australia captain, she led the side to five of her seven World Cup titles, making her the most successful captain in ICC global history across men’s and women’s cricket.

Across formats, Lanning amassed more than 8,000 international runs for Australia. Her record includes 4,602 runs in 103 Women’s One-Day Internationals at an average of 53.51, along with 3,405 runs in T20 Internationals. At domestic and franchise level, she has represented Victoria and Melbourne Stars in Australia, captaining the Stars as well as Delhi Capitals in overseas leagues, and has also led UP Warriorz in the Women’s Premier League.

Her move to Lancashire will see her based at Emirates Old Trafford for much of the summer, before continuing her time in Manchester by turning out for Manchester Super Giants in the Women’s Hundred.

“I’m really excited to be joining Lancashire Thunder for the 2026 Vitality Blast,” Lanning said. “The women’s game in England is moving quickly, and Lancashire is clearly committed to being at the forefront of that growth. The side brought home silverware in the 50-over and T20 cup competitions last season and it would be great to be part of replicating that in the Vitality Blast this year.”

Lanning added that she was looking forward to contributing on the field, sharing her experience with the squad and helping the team push for further success.

Lancashire’s Director of Women’s Cricket, David Thorley, described the signing as a landmark moment for the club. “This is a hugely significant signing for Lancashire Thunder, and for the county game as a whole,” he said. “Meg is not only one of the finest batters of her generation, but one of the most influential leaders the women’s game has ever seen. Her presence will have an immediate and lasting impact on our squad and the club.”

The signing underlines Lancashire’s ambition as women’s cricket in England continues its rapid expansion, with Lanning’s arrival expected to bring both on-field quality and invaluable leadership to the Thunder setup.