Australia captain Meg Lanning ruled out of Women's Ashes for medical reasons

Wicketkeeper Alyssa Healy will lead the side in her absence, with Tahlia McGrath elevated to vice-captain

Australia captain Meg Lanning has been ruled out of the Women's Ashes, withdrawing from the squad on the advice of medical staff.

Wicketkeeper Alyssa Healy will lead the side in her absence, with Tahlia McGrath elevated to vice-captain.

Lanning returned to cricket in January after taking a six-month break from the game, captaining Australia to their sixth Women's T20 World Cup title in February before leading Delhi Capitals to the final of the inaugural Women's Premier League. She was also the leading run-scorer in the latter competition, scoring 345 runs in nine matches.

^{Lanning recently captained Australia to their sixth Women's T20 World Cup title [Ashley Vlotman/Getty Images]}

^{Alyssa Healy (left) and Tahlia McGrath (second right) will serve as captain and vice-captain [Matt Roberts/Getty Images]}

She will not be replaced by one single player, with Australia instead calling on players from the touring Australia A squad as required.

No time line has been placed on Lanning's return to action.

"It's an unfortunate setback for Meg and she's obviously disappointed to have been ruled out of the Ashes," said Cricket Australia's head of performance (women’s cricket), Shawn Fegler.

"It's a significant series for the team and she'll be missed, but she understands the need to put her health first.

"Meg will remain at home where she will continue to work with medical staff with the aim to return to playing as soon as possible."

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