New Delhi
Australian all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner has said she would be open to taking on the role of national team captain if she is asked in the future. While Gardner admitted she never imagined herself as Australia’s captain, her recent leadership experience has made her more confident about the possibility.
Over the past year, Gardner has grown strongly as a leader, captaining teams across different T20 leagues around the world. She is set to travel to India at the start of the new year to once again lead the Gujarat Giants in the Women’s Premier League. Last season, she took over the captaincy from fellow Australian Beth Mooney and guided the franchise to its first-ever playoff appearance.
Her leadership journey continued in England, where she captained the Trent Rockets in The Hundred after England skipper Natalie Sciver-Brunt stepped aside. Under Gardner’s guidance, the Rockets finished in the top four. Later, she was appointed captain of the Sydney Sixers, replacing Ellyse Perry, for the upcoming Women’s Big Bash League season.
Speaking to cricket.com.au, Gardner said she believes leadership is not only about having the captain’s title. She explained that she has focused on leading through actions, especially within the spin bowling group, by sharing experience and ideas. Gardner added that cricket is an individual sport played within a team setup, making communication and teamwork very important.
As discussions continue about Australia’s future captain after Alyssa Healy, several names have emerged. Young batter Phoebe Litchfield has been backed by former players, while vice-captain Tahlia McGrath remains a strong contender. McGrath has often filled in as captain during Healy’s absence, with Gardner serving as her deputy in recent series.
Gardner’s leadership standing is further highlighted by the fact that she captains franchise teams featuring current international captains, reflecting her growing respect in world cricket.