In a move that will delight Sydney Sixers fans and strike a chord across the Women’s Big Bash League, all-round powerhouse Ashleigh Gardner has signed a fresh two-year extension, ensuring she will remain in the Sixers’ iconic magenta until the end of WBBL 13.
Already locked in for the upcoming WBBL 11, the deal deepens a relationship that began in the league’s inaugural season almost ten years ago, making Gardner one of the true foundation faces of both the Sixers and the WBBL. For the 28-year-old, this extension is more than just a contract; it’s a continuation of a storied career built on match-winning moments, consistency, and an undeniable connection with the Sydney faithful.
Gardner’s journey with the Sixers has been woven into the very fabric of the club’s history. Since debuting as a 21-year-old in WBBL 01, she has become a two-time champion (WBBL 02 & WBBL 03), an international match-winner, and one of the most bankable stars in women’s cricket.
Her statistics speak volumes: 2,607 runs, 100 wickets, 135 matches, but numbers alone can’t capture her impact. Whether blazing quick runs at the top of the order, breaking partnerships with her off-spin, or igniting a crowd with her athleticism in the field, Gardner has been a cornerstone in building the Sixers’ identity.
Few fans will forget her blistering 114 off 52 balls at North Sydney Oval during WBBL 03, a masterclass in power hitting that remains one of the highest scores in league history.
Gardner’s crowning individual honour came in WBBL 08, when she was named Player of the Tournament. That summer, she tore through opposition line-ups with 23 wickets, complemented by 339 runs, steering the Sixers to a record-breaking 11 regular season wins and a Grand Final slot.
Her influence extends off the pitch as well. As a proud Indigenous athlete, Gardner has used her platform to advocate for inclusivity, cultural awareness, and opportunities for the next generation of cricketers, adding layers to her leadership role within the squad.
The extension comes at a time of renewal for the Sixers, with Gardner set to reunite with Matthew Mott, her World Cup-winning coach with Australia. Following Charlotte Edwards’ departure, Mott’s arrival signals a fresh chapter for the squad, one blending championship experience with an appetite for innovation.
Gardner will also continue to share the field with long-time teammate and Sixers captain Ellyse Perry, who herself committed to another three years back in June. Together, they form one of the most formidable core units in the competition.
Sixers General Manager Rachael Haynes underscored the significance of the move, “Ash (Ashleigh Gardner) has been a part of our club’s history for over a decade. We’ve watched her grow as a player and a person, and it’s been fantastic to see her become one of the very best in the world. Securing her long-term was crucial to our future.”
The Sixers kick off their WBBL 11 season against the Perth Scorchers at the WACA on November 9, before a highly anticipated North Sydney Oval clash with the Hobart Hurricanes on November 13, a venue that has witnessed some of Gardner’s most unforgettable performances.
As she begins the next chapter of her Sixers story, there’s little doubt that Ashleigh Gardner’s presence will not only fuel their title ambitions but also keep the magenta faithful dreaming of more magical moments under the Sydney lights.
(Quotes sourced from Sydney Sixers Press Release)
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