Meg Lanning returns from break to lead Australia against Pakistan

Australia Women’s skipper Meg Lanning will return to international cricket, ending her ‘indefinite break’ from the game. The Australian Cricket Board announced a 13 member squad for the forthcoming ODI series against Pakistan, commencing January 16, where Lanning returns at the helm of affairs and wicket-keeper batter Alyssa Healy misses out. 

"Meg brings so much to the side both on and off the field, and it's pleasing to welcome her back at such an important time with the T20 World Series just over a month away," national selector Shawn Flegler said. 

Following Australia’s gold medal win at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, Lanning had announced her decision to take some time away from cricket citing personal reasons. 

Healy, who was recently named skipper for the team’s just concluded five match T20I series against India, injured her calf in match 4 that will keep her on the sidelines for Pakistan’s white ball trip. Beth Mooney, who donned the gloves in Healy’s absence is expected to continue the role behind the wicket while Tahlia McGrath, who led the side in the keeper’s absence, had been named Lannin’s deputy for the series. 

Jess Jonassen, who suffered a hamstring injury in India, has been retained in the squad and is anticipated to make full recovery in time for the ODIs that are a part of the Women’s ODI Championship 2022-25. 

Kim Garth, who recently made Australia debut against India, and young batter Phoebe Litchfield have both been retained in the squad. "The Indian series allowed us to blood some new talent and it's pleasing to be able to retain Kim and Phoebe for this series," Flegler added.

Heather Graham, Amanda-Jade Wellington and Grace Harris on the other hand will miss out. The three, however, all remain in contention for selection for the T20I leg of the tour and the forthcoming T20 World Series in South Africa, the squad for which is due to be named. 

Australia squad: Meg Lanning (C), Tahlia McGrath (VC), Darcie Brown, Nicola Carey, Ashleigh Gardner, Kim Garth, Jess Jonassen*, Alana King, Phoebe Litchfield, Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Megan Schutt, Annabel Sutherland

*Subject to full fitness.