Delhi Capitals are set to welcome back the legendary Meg Lanning as she takes the reins to lead the team in the upcoming Women’s Premier League (WPL 2024). The confirmation comes from coach Jonathan Batty, who revealed that Lanning, despite her recent retirement from international cricket, is actively involved in the team’s planning for the upcoming season.
A month ago, the cricketing world was surprised by Lanning’s sudden decision to retire at the age of 31. However, her return to the Delhi Capitals showcases her commitment to the sport, and fans are eagerly anticipating her leadership on the field once again.
Meg Lanning stellar performance in the first WPL, where she emerged as the leading run-scorer with 345 runs in nine innings, adds an extra layer of excitement for the team and its supporters.
Batty, expressing his anticipation to Indian Express said, “I have been in conversation with Meg regularly. We were together in WBBL for Melbourne Stars as well. She is really looking forward to coming back and leading the team in the second edition.”
Meg Lanning-led Delhi Capitals optimistic for WPL 2024
Despite finishing as the runner-up in the previous season, Delhi Capitals are optimistic about their chances this time. With a more or less settled squad, the team aims to go one step further and secure the championship in the upcoming WPL. The squad has undergone strategic evaluations, releasing three players and holding a purse of Rs 2.25 crore for the auction.
Batty sheds light on the team’s preparations, saying, “During the off-seasons, we have had a couple of training camps, where our local domestic players, who were not playing international cricket attended those camps. We also brought some of the best local talents from India. We have set the benchmark for all the domestic players, just to see where they are as part of our scouting process.”
The coach emphasizes the importance of making women’s cricket more accessible to bridge the existing gap between men’s and women’s cricket. Batty suggests that televising women’s cricket on mainstream channels will attract interest and bring more spectators to the stadiums, ultimately narrowing the gulf between the two formats.
As Delhi Capitals gear up for WPL 2024, the return of Meg Lanning adds a touch of cricketing brilliance, and fans can’t wait to witness the team’s journey under her seasoned leadership. With strategic planning and a focus on accessibility, the upcoming season promises to be a thrilling chapter in the evolution of women’s cricket.
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