Australian all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner’s remarkable form on the field has been matched only by the joy she has found off it, as she recently tied knot with her partner, almost a year after getting engaged. Celebrating the day with her loved ones, Gardner was joined by her close cricket friends, including Australian skipper Alyssa Healy, all-rounders Ellyse Perry and Kim Garth, batters Phoebe Litchfield and Elyse Villani.
With a career spanning over six years, Ashleigh Gardner has established herself as a key player for Australia. Her stellar record showcases 325 runs and 28 wickets in Test cricket, 1,270 runs and 101 wickets in ODIs, and 1,411 runs and 78 wickets in T20Is, cementing her reputation as a versatile and accomplished all-rounder
The year 2025 has been a phenomenal one for the 27-year-old, with her incredible form on full display. It all began with the ODI leg of the Women’s Ashes, where she was named Player of the Match in the first game for her impressive 42 not out and figures of 3/19.
However, it was in the third ODI that she truly made history, scoring her maiden international century with a remarkable run-a-ball 102. This achievement marked a milestone, as she became the first Aboriginal woman to hit an international century. In the one-off Ashes test match, she showcased her versatility across formats as she picked up a four-wicket haul.
The crowning glory of Ash Gardner’s remarkable year came when she was appointed captain of the Gujarat Giants in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025, replacing her Australian teammate, Beth Mooney. Under Gardner’s leadership, the Giants turned their fortunes around, qualifying for the knockouts after finishing on the bottom of the table in the previous two seasons. Although they faced defeat in the eliminator against Mumbai Indians, Gardner led from the front, scoring 243 runs in nine matches with the highest score of 79* and picking up eight wickets.
Soon after her successful stint with the Gujarat Giants, Gardner rejoined the Australian team for their T20I series against New Zealand. Unfortunately, her return was short-lived, as she suffered an injury while attempting to catch a powerful shot from Sophie Devine in the first match. This setback ruled her out of the remainder of the series, bringing an abrupt pause to an otherwise stellar year, but Gardner’s story in 2025 is far from over.
As she recovers off the field, she has found a different kind of joy – celebrating love and companionship as she tied the knot with her long-time partner. With a heart full and eyes set on a strong comeback, Ashleigh Gardner will be hoping to return to the field soon, carrying forward the same grit and grace that have defined her incredible journey so far.
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