Meg Lanning is a name synonymous with elegance and excellence in women’s cricket. Renowned for her stylish batting and composed captaincy, Lanning has made an indelible mark on the sport. Now at 30, she stands as one of the best batters the game has ever seen, with a rapidly growing list of accolades that reflect her solid performances year after year.
Early Career and Breakthrough
A Promising Start
Lanning’s cricket journey began at the tender age of 10, and her prodigious talent quickly earned her a spot representing New South Wales at the primary level. By the time she turned 16, she made her senior domestic debut for Victoria in 2008, showcasing her incredible skills and determination. Just a couple of years later, she donned the Australian jersey, marking the start of an illustrious international career.
International Stardom
Lanning burst onto the international scene with a remarkable ODI century in only her second game, becoming the youngest Australian centurion at just 18 years old. This record was a significant milestone as it surpassed that of her idol, the legendary Ricky Ponting. Lanning played a vital role in Australia’s triumphs during this period, contributing to the team’s victories in the 2012 T20 World Cup and the 2013 ODI World Cup. During this time, she also set a record for the fastest ODI century by an Australian player, reaching the milestone in just 45 balls.
Captaincy and Achievements
Youngest Captain
In early 2014, Lanning was appointed as the youngest Australian captain, stepping in for Jodie Fields. Within a month, she assumed the full-time role of T20I captain and led Australia to victory in the 2014 T20 World Cup, becoming the highest run-scorer of the tournament. Lanning’s leadership saw the team grow stronger, and her batting prowess continued to dominate.
Record-Breaking Leadership
Under Lanning’s captaincy, Australia clinched titles in the 2018, 2020, and 2023 T20 World Cups, as well as the 2022 ODI World Cup. These achievements made her the captain with the most ICC titles (5), surpassing Ricky Ponting’s previous record of 4. Lanning also guided her team to a Gold Medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham. Currently, she holds the record for the most centuries in women’s cricket, with an impressive 17 centuries to her name.
Lanning’s Role in WPL 2025
Now, Meg Lanning joins the Delhi Capitals as they strive to win the inaugural Women’s Premier League (WPL). Her extensive experience, tactical acumen, and unmatched talent make her an invaluable asset to the team.
FAQs About Meg Lanning
Meg Lanning has won multiple ICC titles as captain, including five World Cups (three T20 and two ODI). She also holds the record for the most centuries in women’s cricket with 17.
Lanning began playing cricket at the age of 10, quickly advancing to represent New South Wales at primary levels before making her senior domestic debut for Victoria at 16.
Lanning became the youngest captain in Australian history at the age of 22, taking over the role in early 2014.
Lanning was the youngest Australian to score an ODI century and also set the record for the fastest ODI century by an Australian player, doing so in just 45 balls.
Lanning’s leadership skills and exceptional batting ability make her a pivotal addition to any team. Her experience and accolades position her as a key player in the Delhi Capitals’ quest for the championship in the WPL.