Meg Lanning: Australia Women’s captain ruled out of Ashes tour in England for medical reasons | cricket news

Lanning, 31, who returned to cricket in January after a six-month mental health break, was “withdrawn from the squad due to a medical issue requiring management from home”; Watch the Men’s and Women’s Ashes live on Sky Sports from June 16

Australian captain Meg Lanning has been ruled out of the Summer Women’s Ashes tour for medical reasons.

A statement from Cricket Australia said the 31-year-old Lanning, who returned to cricket in January after a six-month mental health break, has been “withdrawn from the squad due to a medical issue requiring management from home”.

Cricket Australia’s head of women’s cricket performance Shawn Flegler said: “This is an unfortunate setback for Meg and she is obviously disappointed to have been ruled out of the Ashes – it is an important series for the team and she will be missed, but she understands the need to put your health first.

“Meg will remain at home where she will continue to work with the medical staff with the aim of returning to play as soon as possible.

“We ask that Meg’s privacy be respected at this time.”

Goalkeeper-batsman Alyssa Healy will captain the team during the Ashes against England with the all-rounder Tahlia McGrath serving as vice-captain.

Lanning is one of the most decorated players in the game having won the T20 World Cup five times and the Over 50 World Cup twice. He also led Australia to gold at the Commonwealth Games last year.

She will not be replaced in the squad with players from Australia A who are touring England at the same time and are available if necessary.

Australia, which is looking to retain the multi-format Ashes, will face England in a one-off test in Nottingham from June 22-26 at Trent Bridge before playing three T20 matches and three one-day internationals, concluding the tour in July. 18

Watch all the Ashes men’s and women’s matches live on Sky Sports. You can also follow videos and text comments one by one on Sky Sports digital platforms. Live coverage of the first Men’s Test is live from June 16-20 on Sky Sports Cricket.