Former Australia captain Meg Lanning has opted to pursue a full-time freelance cricketing career, declining a state contract with Victoria for the upcoming 2026–27 domestic season. This decision marks a significant move in her post-international journey, reflecting the shifting landscape of women’s cricket towards prioritizing global franchise opportunities.
Lanning, who retired from international cricket in 2023, has maintained a strong presence in the women’s game, participating in various tournaments in India and England while reducing her involvement in Australia’s domestic cricket. Despite being on Victoria’s roster post-retirement, she had a limited role in the last domestic season, featuring in only four matches during the Women’s National Cricket League before focusing on overseas franchise commitments.
Currently leading UP Warriorz in the Women’s Premier League and captaining Manchester Originals in England’s The Hundred, Lanning has also joined Lancashire for the T20 Blast, showcasing her dedication to the global T20 circuit. While her future in the WBBL is uncertain as she is off-contract with the Melbourne Stars, Lanning’s exceptional performance in the previous season, where she was the second-highest run-scorer, highlights her cricketing prowess.
Apart from her playing career, Lanning has begun exploring coaching opportunities, recently working with Australia’s Under-19 setup as a development coach. Cricket Victoria’s head of female cricket, Kirby Short, expressed support for Lanning’s decision, emphasizing the growth of women’s cricket and the expanding global opportunities for players. Victoria’s squad is undergoing changes ahead of the new season, with Lanning and co-vice-captain Ella Hayward moving on, as the team aims to rebuild after a challenging previous season without a single victory.
Short acknowledged the disappointing results of the last season but affirmed the organization’s commitment to a long-term reconstruction, emphasizing the need for hard work and incremental progress. Despite the setbacks, there is a shared vision among staff and players in creating a positive environment for Victoria’s cricket, focusing on gradual improvement rather than quick fixes.
