Will Ashleigh Gardner Lead Gujarat Giants in WPL 2026?
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Synopsis
As the excitement builds for WPL 2026, Ashleigh Gardner continues to lead the Gujarat Giants. With her impressive track record and commitment to the team, can she guide them to victory this season? Find out more about her journey and the upcoming matches.
Key Takeaways
- Ashleigh Gardner continues as captain for WPL 2026.
- Gardner has scored 568 runs and taken 25 wickets in the league.
- Last season, she was the leading run-scorer for the Giants with 243 runs.
- The WPL 2026 will run from January 9 to February 5, 2026.
- The Giants will play their first match against UP Warriorz.
New Delhi, Dec 30 (NationPress) The Gujarat Giants have confirmed that Australian all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner will remain at the helm of the franchise for the upcoming season of the Women’s Premier League (WPL). Gardner, a holder of three T20 Women’s World Cup titles, took over the captaincy from her fellow Australian teammate Beth Mooney last season. Under her guidance, the team made it to the playoffs for the first time in three years.
“With experience by her side and confidence in her voice, Ash Gardner is ready to lead us towards victory,” the Giants announced on their social media platforms.
Since the WPL's launch in 2023, Gardner has been a pivotal player for the Gujarat Giants, amassing 568 runs and taking 25 wickets across 25 matches. She was one of the two players retained by the Giants before the WPL 2026 Auction, at a cost of Rs. 3.5 crore, with Mooney being retained for Rs. 2.5 crore.
Last season, Gardner stood out due to her remarkable all-round performances. Batting in the middle-order, she emerged as the team's top run-scorer with 243 runs in nine matches, boasting an impressive strike rate of 164.18, alongside an average of 30.37.
In addition, the Aussie all-rounder showcased her right-arm off-spin bowling, securing eight wickets with an economy rate of 8.03. She also clinched the Most Sixes award, hitting 18 sixes throughout the tournament.
The Giants wrapped up the WPL 2025 season in third place with eight points from eight matches, earning a spot in the Eliminator. Unfortunately, their journey ended there after a loss to the eventual champions, Mumbai Indians.
The fourth edition of the WPL is set to take place from January 9 to February 5, 2026, across Navi Mumbai and Vadodara.
The Giants will kick off their season against UP Warriorz in Navi Mumbai on January 10.
Point of View
It's clear that Ashleigh Gardner's leadership is pivotal for the Gujarat Giants. Her experience and performance are not just assets for the team, but also resonate with fans and aspiring players. The WPL continues to grow in prominence, and Gardner's role is central to its narrative, marking a significant chapter in women's cricket.
NationPress
30/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Ashleigh Gardner?
Ashleigh Gardner is an Australian all-rounder and captain of the Gujarat Giants in the Women’s Premier League (WPL). She is a three-time T20 Women’s World Cup winner.
How did the Gujarat Giants perform last season?
The Gujarat Giants reached the playoffs for the first time in three years, finishing third in the WPL 2025 standings.
When does WPL 2026 start?
The fourth edition of the WPL will take place from January 9 to February 5, 2026.
Who did the Gujarat Giants play against in their opening match?
The Gujarat Giants will start their campaign against UP Warriorz in Navi Mumbai on January 10.
What are Ashleigh Gardner's stats in the WPL?
In the WPL, Gardner has scored 568 runs and taken 25 wickets in 25 matches, standing out as a key player for the Giants.
