Ashleigh Gardner

Ashleigh Gardner is a proud Muruwari woman, representing her Indigenous heritage from south-west Queensland and north-west New South Wales. Growing up in south-west Sydney, Gardner discovered her love for cricket at a young age, participating in local leagues and honing her skills. By 17, while still in high school, she earned her first state cricket contract, marking the beginning of a promising career. Notably, she stands out as one of only four Indigenous Australians to play Test cricket, breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations.

Domestic Career

Gardner began her domestic career with New South Wales in the Women’s National Cricket League (WNCL), showcasing her talents as a fierce competitor. She joined the Sydney Sixers for the inaugural season of the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) in 2015-16, where she gained national attention for her explosive batting. A standout moment came during WBBL|03 when she scored a blistering 114 off just 52 balls, earning her prominence in women’s cricket. In 2023, she was acquired by the Gujarat Giants in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) for ₹3.2 crores, further elevating her profile in the cricketing world.

International Career

Gardner made her international debut in February 2017 against New Zealand, quickly establishing herself as a critical player for the Australian women’s cricket team. Her prowess as an all-rounder, capable of delivering game-changing performances with both bat and ball, has made her a fan favourite and a crucial asset for the squad.

Career Highlights

1. World Championships:

• Contributed to Australia’s triumphs in multiple ICC tournaments, including the Women’s Cricket World Cup in 2022 and the T20 World Cups in 2020 and 2023.
• Honoured as the Player of the Tournament at the 2023 T20 World Cup, highlighting her impact on the international stage.

1. Commonwealth Games (2022):

• Played a pivotal role in Australia’s gold medal victory, delivering exceptional performances in both batting and bowling.

1. Ashes Heroics:

• Delivered a phenomenal performance in the 2023 Ashes Test at Trent Bridge, recording match figures of 12/165, including 8/66 in the second innings, one of the best bowling performances in Australian women’s cricket history.

Awards and Recognitions

• Two-time Belinda Clark Award recipient (2022, 2024), honoring her as Australia’s best women’s cricketer.
• Recognized as the Young Gun of WBBL|02 and awarded Player of the Tournament for WBBL|08.

Off-the-Field Contributions

Beyond her cricketing achievements, Gardner is dedicated to empowering Aboriginal youth through her Ashleigh Gardner Foundation. The foundation promotes education, health, and cultural pride among Indigenous children, fostering positive experiences through sport and art. This initiative emphasizes her commitment to giving back to her community and encouraging young aspiring athletes.

Legacy

Ashleigh Gardner is not only celebrated as an exceptional cricketer but also revered as a role model for young Indigenous athletes. With her clan name tattooed on her arm as a continuous reminder of her roots, Gardner embodies the spirit of sportsmanship and cultural representation. Through her outstanding performances and community contributions, she inspires countless individuals while proudly celebrating her Indigenous heritage. As she continues to excel on the international stage, her legacy is firmly established as a symbol of hope and empowerment for future generations.