Lanning retires to end 13-year Australia career

Meg Lanning (centre) led Australia to victory in the Women's T20 World Cup in February

Australia captain Meg Lanning has announced her international retirement after 13 years at the highest level of cricket.

"The decision to step away from international cricket was a difficult one to make, but I feel now is the right time for me," Lanning said.

She represented Australia in 241 matches, scoring a combined 8,352 runs.

Lanning scored 17 centuries across six Tests, 103 ODIs and 132 T20I, averaging 53.21 in one-day games.

Lanning missed this year's Ashes with England for medical reasons.

Her absence from the tour of England followed a break from cricket for her mental health in 2022, before she returned in February 2023 to lead her side to victory at the T20 World Cup.

"I've been incredibly fortunate to enjoy a 13-year international career, but I know now is the right time for me to move on to something new," Lanning added.

"Team success is why you play the game, I'm proud of what I have been able to achieve and will cherish the moments shared with teammates along the way."

The move ends her 182-game spell as Australia captain over a 10-year period.

Lanning will continue to play in domestic competitions, including the ongoing Women's Big Bash League with the Melbourne Stars, and for Victoria in the Women's National Cricket League.