In a recent series between Australia and New Zealand, Australian all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner experienced a concussion scare that temporarily sidelined her from the first T20I. The incident occurred during a warm-up drill involving a soft ‘Vortex’ ball, where she collided with her teammate Georgia Wareham while attempting to catch the ball. After this incident, looking ahead at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, Australia has banned the pre-game activity that involves Vortex Ball for the rest of the series.
Gardner is scared of her concussion history
Gardner, who has a history of concussions, initially laughed off the collision but later became emotional, fearing she had suffered another concussion, which would have been her eighth.
After being ruled out of the first match, Gardner was cleared of any serious injury and made a strong comeback in the second game, where she delivered an outstanding performance, taking 3 wickets for just 16 runs. Her efforts played a big role in Australia’s 29-run victory over New Zealand.
Batting collapse in the second T20I
Australia’s captain, Alyssa Healy, decided to bat first in the second T20I, but Australia’s batting lineup faltered, experiencing a major collapse, losing their last seven wickets for just 28 runs. Amelia Kerr from New Zealand delivered an excellent bowling performance, taking 4 wickets for 20 runs.
The comeback from Australia
Despite the batting collapse, Australia’s bowler ensured that the target of 142 runs was more than enough, securing the win. Gardner, however, challenged her team’s batters to perform better in the final T20I match, urging them to post a massive total if they bat first in the upcoming game in Brisbane.
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