Will Ashleigh Gardner Remain at the Helm of Gujarat Giants in WPL 2026?
Synopsis
Gujarat Giants confirm that Ashleigh Gardner will continue as captain for WPL 2026. Known for her remarkable skills and leadership, Gardner aims to lead the franchise to new heights in the upcoming season. Can she steer the Giants to victory?
Key Takeaways
Ashleigh Gardner continues as captain for WPL 2026.
She has scored 568 runs and taken 25 wickets in WPL.
Last season, she was the leading run-scorer for Gujarat Giants.
The WPL 2026 is scheduled from January 9 to February 5 .
The Giants will face UP Warriorz in their opening match.
New Delhi, Dec 30 (NationPress) The Gujarat Giants have confirmed that Australian all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner will continue her role as captain for the forthcoming season of the Women’s Premier League (WPL). Gardner, a three-time T20 Women’s World Cup champion, took over the captaincy from fellow Australian Beth Mooney last season. Under her guidance, the Gujarat Giants made it to the playoffs for the first time in three years.
“With experience in her stride and confidence in her voice, Ash Gardner steps up once more as our CAPTAIN, ready to lead us to victory,” the franchise stated on its social media platforms.
Since the commencement of the WPL in 2023, Gardner has been a pivotal player for the franchise, amassing 568 runs and taking 25 wickets in 25 matches. She was one of the two players retained by the Giants before the WPL 2026 Auction, fetching a price of Rs. 3.5 crore.
Last season, Gardner stood out with her consistent all-round contributions. Batting in the middle order, she emerged as the leading run-scorer for the team with 243 runs in nine matches at a remarkable strike rate of 164.18, maintaining an average of 30.37.
Additionally, the Australian all-rounder showcased her skills with the ball, claiming eight wickets at an economy of 8.03. She also earned the Most Sixes award, hitting 18 maximums during the tournament.
With eight points from eight matches, the Giants secured third place in the WPL 2025 standings, qualifying for the Eliminator. Unfortunately, their successful campaign concluded in the Eliminator against the eventual champions, Mumbai Indians.
The fourth edition of the WPL is scheduled 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
The continuation of Ashleigh Gardner as captain of the Gujarat Giants is a strategic move that underlines the franchise's commitment to building a strong team. Her proven track record and leadership qualities are expected to inspire the squad as they aim for success in the upcoming WPL season.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Ashleigh Gardner's achievements in WPL?
Ashleigh Gardner has scored 568 runs and taken 25 wickets in 25 matches since the inception of WPL.
When does WPL 2026 start?
WPL 2026 will commence on January 9 and conclude on February 5, 2026.
Who is the captain of Gujarat Giants for WPL 2026?
Ashleigh Gardner will continue to lead the Gujarat Giants as captain for WPL 2026.
How did Gujarat Giants perform last season?
Last season, the Gujarat Giants finished third in the standings and reached the Eliminator.
What is Ashleigh Gardner's role in the team?
Ashleigh Gardner plays as an all-rounder, contributing with both bat and ball for the Gujarat Giants.
