Meg Lanning joins coaching staff as preparation for U19 Women's T20 World Cup 2027 starts

Former Australian cricketer Meg Lanning is set to take on the role of assistant coach at the upcoming Lanning v Perry series in Brisbane. The top-order batter, who retired from international cricket in 2023, captained Australia to seven World Cup titles and multiple Ashes victories during her career.

The Lanning v Perry series, named after Lanning and her longtime teammate and rival Ellyse Perry, will serve as a key foundation for identifying talent ahead of the 2027 Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup. A total of 26 players will be eligible for selection, with the series scheduled to commence on April 25.

Teams will be coached by Natalie Schilov from Cricket Tasmania and Cassie Brock from Cricket Victoria. Lanning and Australian assistant coach Gavan Twining will support them as assistant coaches, offering mentorship to the young players.

Cricket Australia’s Head of National Development, Sonya Thompson, admitted the significance of the series, stating that it presents a learning opportunity for emerging cricketers to spend a week gaining knowledge and inspiration from one of Australia's greatest players.

"We are delighted to welcome Meg Lanning on board as an assistant coach for the series. It is an incredible opportunity for our best emerging cricketers to spend a week learning and absorbing knowledge from one of Australia's most decorated cricketers." Thompson said.

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Thomson also noted that the education sessions conducted by Cricket Australia’s high-performance staff are designed to support and develop the next generation of players, equipping them with the knowledge and processes needed to succeed at the highest level of the game.

"The education sessions, run by CA high-performance staff, are designed to help develop the next generation of cricketers as individuals off the field while familiarising them with the expectations and processes required to succeed at the highest level," she added.

The 33-year-old holds the record for the most centuries in Women’s ODIs, After stepping away from international duties, she continues to play domestic cricket for Victoria, the Melbourne Stars and various other franchise teams.