Globe-trotting Meg Lanning is to play for Lancashire in the English summer with the Old Trafford-based outfit hailing the signing of Australia's most successful skipper as one of the most significant in the history of women's county cricket.
The 33-year-old, who won five of her seven World Cup titles as captain, will feature in Lancashire Thunder's bid to win the Blast, England's T20 competition, between May and July.
Lanning, who's already enjoyed a successful WBBL campaign for the Melbourne Stars with the bat in December and January before jetting off to India to captain the UP Warriorz' rather less successful bid to win the WPL, will be shooting for two titles at Old Trafford.
Not only will she be trying to help the county successfully defend their Blast crown but she'll also be seeking to help the Old Trafford-based Manchester Super Giants win The Hundred, the country's premier white-ball competition.
The Red Rose county made a big deal about the Melbourne star's signing on social media, revealing their new capture in a pastiche of the popular BBC TV hit, The Traitors.
It continues the busy schedule of the most decorated skipper in the history of the international game, who's continued to shine in domestic and franchise cricket around the world ever since retiring from the national job in 2023.
"I'm really excited," said Lanning.
"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 Blast this year.
"I'm looking forward to arriving at 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."
David Thorley, Lancashire's director of women's cricket, hailed the signing as "hugely significant 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 and can't wait to watch her perform at Old Trafford this summer."
