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The former Australian cricket team captain Meg Lanning has joined Lancashire Thunder to compete in the 2026 Women’s Vitality Blast which will bring her extensive experience to the English domestic cricket season. The 33-year-old has retired from international cricket in 2023 but continues to play franchise cricket around the world.

Lanning stands as the most successful captain in the history of the sport. Australia claimed five World Cup titles under her captaincy and she finished her career with a total of seven World Cup victories. She holds the record for most ICC championship titles as a captain in both men's and women's cricket.

Lanning scored more than 8,000 runs for Australia across all formats of the game. She scored 4,602 runs in 103 One-Day Internationals with an average of 53.51 and she also scored 3,405 runs in T20 Internationals. Her batting performance combined with her consistent output made her one of the top dependable batters during her time period.

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Meg Lanning expressed her enthusiasm about joining Lancashire Thunder while she supports the women's cricket movement in England.

Lanning said:

"I'm really excited to be joining Lancashire Thunder for the 2026 Vitality Blast. 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.

"I'm looking forward to arriving at Emirates Old Trafford in a few months' time, contributing on the field, sharing experiences with the group, and helping the team in that push for success."

Lanning will continue her Old Trafford stay by playing for Manchester Super Giants in the Women’s Hundred this summer.

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Lanning's presence will create a positive impact for the team according to Lancashire officials who see her as a major contributor to both competitive play and team dynamics. David Thorley, the Director of Women's Cricket, praised the signing.

"This is a hugely significant signing for Lancashire Thunder, and for the county game as a whole.

"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 record as Australia captain speaks for itself, and her presence will have an immediate and lasting impact on our squad and the Club.

"Signings like this send a clear message about where we want to go as a Club. We're incredibly proud to welcome Meg to Lancashire Cricket and we can't wait to watch her perform at Emirates Old Trafford this summer."

Lanning's transfer strengthens the Women’s Vitality Blast while it serves as a significant advancement for county cricket in England.