WPL: Lanning Shares Insights on WNCL Games' Impact on Batting Form
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Synopsis
Meg Lanning shares her thoughts on the benefits of playing in the WNCL following her retirement from international cricket in 2023. She looks forward to leading Delhi Capitals in the upcoming WPL season and emphasizes the importance of mentoring young players.
Key Takeaways
- Meg Lanning discusses her transition post-retirement.
- She emphasizes the value of playing WNCL games for batting rhythm.
- Lanning highlights the importance of mentoring younger players.
- She acknowledges WPL's impact on the growth of Indian cricket.
- Collaboration with teammates is vital for success.
Vadodara, Feb 11 (NationPress) After her retirement from international cricket in 2023, Meg Lanning has embraced the opportunity to participate in franchise T20 leagues and compete in domestic tournaments across Australia.
With the constant travel behind her, Meg appears rejuvenated, with her primary aim in India being to guide Delhi Capitals towards securing their inaugural Women’s Premier League (WPL) title, set to commence on February 14.
Although her recent performance in the WBBL with Melbourne Stars yielded only 158 runs across nine innings, Meg excelled in the 50-over Women’s National Cricket League (WNCL), scoring 358 runs in eight matches. She believes this experience has greatly contributed to her current batting rhythm as she gears up for WPL 2025.
“I've been participating in some matches for Victoria in the WNCL back in Australia. So that's been beneficial. I feel that competing in matches is crucial. There's nothing comparable to being in the middle and maintaining a good rhythm. Those games have been excellent for me, and I feel well-prepared with my game,” she stated.
“I always take pleasure in playing and batting here in India. I've experienced success here before. In the few days since my arrival, it's been wonderful to reacquaint myself with the conditions and clarify my strategy for the tournament,” Meg shared during a pre-season press conference with IANS.
She also reflected on the changes in her life post-retirement from the demanding international cricket schedule, highlighting her joy in mentoring younger players in the WPL, The Hundred, WBBL, and WNCL.
“A significant shift for me has been spending more time at home, reducing my time on the road, which I have thoroughly enjoyed. However, whenever I have the chance to participate in tournaments like this, I am genuinely excited and eager to join,” she remarked.
“Having experienced international cricket for such a long time, I have learned various lessons on what works and what doesn’t. Now, I have the opportunity, especially back home and in tournaments like this, to collaborate with younger players and share the insights I've gained.”
“It's not just about on-field tactics; it’s also about off-field strategies for managing the pressures associated with playing at this level. I strive to impart this knowledge to any team I join, addressing any questions from fellow players,” she elaborated.
“This aspect of learning and team participation is vital, and I truly enjoy contributing to it. I can likely dedicate more time to this now, given my retirement from international cricket. The same goes for Delhi – everyone here is eager to learn and ask questions, which I greatly appreciate,” she added.
Currently, Meg stands as the leading run-scorer in WPL history and praised the tournament's influence on the development of Indian cricketers since its launch in 2023. “The impact has been profound, benefiting not only international players but also local talents and advancing the sport,” she stated.
“As Jonathan mentioned, it’s been remarkable to see the progress among domestic Indian players and national cricketers. Their development has been evident, significantly due to the opportunities WPL provides to play alongside international players and local stars.”
She emphasized that WPL has successfully created pathways for players, allowing young girls the chance to envision a career in professional cricket. “It provides them with exposure to a significant platform, which is crucial for growth. You only improve by gaining experience and opportunities,” she asserted.
“Additionally, it serves as a platform for young girls to recognize what is achievable and the route to playing for franchises or their national teams. Witnessing that as a young person can be incredibly inspiring and offers tangible goals to strive for,” Meg noted.
“I know that the WPL is frequently discussed back home, and it’s a tournament that players aspire to join. I am thrilled to be back playing for Delhi. Each time, I look forward to it, as I have had enjoyable experiences here,” she concluded.
The quest for DC’s first WPL title kicks off with a match against Mumbai Indians on February 15, reuniting Meg with India opener Shafali Verma, who has returned to domestic cricket after being sidelined from the national team since the ODI series against New Zealand last year.
Shafali excelled in domestic cricket, emerging as the top scorer in the Senior Women's One-Day Challenger Trophy with 414 runs in five matches, averaging 82.80 with a strike rate of 145.26, including one century and three fifties.
“I enjoy batting alongside Shafali. She consistently delivers an entertaining performance, and I get the best view from the other end. In our recent practice match, she showcased similar skills. She seems to be in great form and genuinely enjoying the game, which I believe is essential,” Meg remarked.
“Watching her play freely and express herself is crucial for our team's success. I always appreciate batting with her. We share a good rapport, and I hope this season continues from where we left off in the past two editions,” Meg concluded.
