She finished 29th in her first game since August before the series against Pakistan
Cricket legend Belinda Clark has advised Meg Lanning to get back to peak form after a five-month hiatus.
Victoria’s 50-over-long clash with New South his Wales at Junction Oval on Thursday will focus on himself after Australia’s Commonwealth won gold in his game in August. It was Lanning’s first match as national team captain since he took a break for the 2008 World Cup.
She made 29 solid runs from 33 deliveries and raced five fours before being caught by Lauren Smith in 12 overs at midwicket.
Her swing helped Victoria to an important 88-run victory over NSW, with Elise Perry scoring 125 to 147 balls against her former provinces.
Lanning will face NSW again on Saturday for her final goal before Australia’s whiteball streak begins against Pakistan on 16 January. “It was brave of Meg to step down when she realized she had to step down,” Clark told reporters. I hope you have a cricket.
“Cricket is a game that always needs to be in, so I think we will see some great highlights from Meg Lanning in the years to come. ”
Running’s return coincided with the unveiling of Clark’s bronze statue at the SCG on Thursday. Clarke is considered one of Australia’s greatest ever players and was the first player in the world to have a statue erected on a professional cricket ground.
“It’s been quite a journey to see it come to fruition over a few months,” Clark said. “It’s a great day to announce it.
“I hope that young girls and boys will enjoy sport.This is a way for them to understand that sport is for everyone and hopefully they will bring this statue to life. Look, then look at other people’s paths, and you’ll figure it out.”