Women’s county cricket in England is set for a defining moment as Meg Lanning, one of the most accomplished leaders the game has ever known, prepares to don Lancashire Thunder colours in the 2026 Women’s T20 Blast. In a move that underlines Lancashire Cricket’s growing ambition in the women’s game, the former Australia captain has signed for the Thunder in what is being hailed as one of the most significant acquisitions in the competition’s history.
Lanning arrives with a legacy that few cricketers across genders can rival. A multiple-time World Cup winner and the most successful captain in ICC tournament history, she led Australia through an era of sustained dominance, claiming five World Cup titles as skipper. Her calm authority, tactical sharpness and relentless run-scoring have made her a benchmark for leadership in modern cricket.
Having stepped away from international cricket in 2023, Lanning left behind staggering numbers: more than 8,000 international runs for Australia across formats, including over 4000 in ODIs and in excess of 3000 in T20 Internationals (T20Is). Beyond the figures, her influence reshaped the standards of professionalism and performance in the women’s game.
Her impact has been equally pronounced on the domestic and franchise circuit. From representing Victoria and Melbourne Stars in Australia to captaining Delhi Capitals in global leagues, Lanning has consistently delivered at the highest level. She continues to be a commanding presence in franchise cricket, currently leading UP Warriorz in the Women’s Premier League and set to feature for Manchester SuperGiants in The Hundred this summer.
For Lancashire Thunder, the signing is both symbolic and strategic. The side enjoyed a successful 2025 season, lifting silverware in the 50-over and T20 cup competitions, and Lanning’s arrival is seen as a statement of intent ahead of the expanded Women’s T20 Blast. Her experience is expected to elevate not just performances on the field, but also the development of younger players within the squad.
Speaking about the move, Lanning expressed her excitement at joining a county clearly invested in the future of women’s cricket. She highlighted Lancashire’s recent success and ambition, and spoke of her eagerness to contribute both as a batter and as a mentor when she arrives at Old Trafford.
Lancashire Cricket’s leadership echoed that sentiment, describing Lanning as a transformative figure whose presence will resonate far beyond matchdays. The Club views the signing as a reflection of its long-term vision to place Lancashire Thunder at the forefront of the women’s domestic game in England.
Lanning’s arrival also adds extra edge to the highly anticipated War of the Roses clash on Friday, 10 July 2026, when Lancashire Thunder and Lightning face Yorkshire in a historic T20 double-header at Old Trafford. With one of cricket’s greatest leaders now in red, the rivalry promises to reach new heights as fans witness a landmark chapter in domestic cricket unfold.
