Will Ashleigh Gardner Continue to Lead Gujarat Giants in WPL 2026?
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Synopsis
In an exciting announcement, Gujarat Giants confirm that Ashleigh Gardner will remain at the helm as captain for the WPL 2026 season. Garnering attention for her stellar all-round performances, Gardner aims to steer the team towards success. The tournament kicks off on January 9, 2026, promising thrilling matches ahead!
Key Takeaways
- Ashleigh Gardner continues as captain for the Gujarat Giants.
- She has been pivotal in the team's recent successes.
- WPL 2026 will run from January 9 to February 5, 2026.
- The Giants aim to improve on last season's playoff finish.
- Gardner's all-round capabilities are key to the team's strategy.
New Delhi, Dec 30 (NationPress) The Gujarat Giants have confirmed that Australian all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner will continue her role as captain 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, Beth Mooney, last season. Under her guidance, the Giants made it to the playoffs for the first time in three years.
“With experience on her side and confidence in her voice, Ash Gardner is ready to lead us towards triumph,” the Giants announced on their social media platforms.
Since the inception of the WPL in 2023, Gardner has been a key player for the Gujarat Giants, accumulating 568 runs and taking 25 wickets across 25 matches. She was one of only two players, alongside Beth Mooney at Rs. 2.5 crore, retained by the Giants ahead of the WPL 2026 Auction for a sum of Rs. 3.5 crore.
During the last season, Gardner showcased her remarkable all-round talent. Batting in the middle order, she emerged as the top-run scorer for the team, amassing 243 runs in nine appearances at a striking rate of 164.18, while boasting an average of 30.37.
The Australian all-rounder also proved her worth with her right-arm off-spin, taking eight wickets at an economy rate of 8.03. She clinched the Most Sixes title with a staggering 18 sixes to her name.
Despite finishing third with eight points from eight matches, the Giants' successful journey concluded in the Eliminator, where they faced defeat against the eventual champions, the Mumbai Indians.
The fourth edition of the WPL is scheduled to take place from January 9 to February 5, 2026, with matches held in Navi Mumbai and Vadodara.
The Giants will kick off their campaign against the UP Warriorz in Navi Mumbai on January 10.
Point of View
I find this development noteworthy. Ashleigh Gardner's continued leadership reflects the franchise's commitment to building a strong team. Her experience and performance are essential as the Gujarat Giants aim for greater success in the upcoming season of the Women’s Premier League.
NationPress
04/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Ashleigh Gardner?
Ashleigh Gardner is an Australian cricketer and all-rounder, known for her exceptional skills in batting and bowling. She has won the T20 Women’s World Cup three times.
What is the WPL?
The Women’s Premier League (WPL) is a professional women’s T20 cricket league in India, showcasing top talent from around the world.
When does WPL 2026 start?
WPL 2026 is set to commence on January 9, 2026, and will run until February 5, 2026.
What were Gardner's achievements last season?
Last season, Ashleigh Gardner was the leading run-scorer for the Gujarat Giants, scoring 243 runs and taking eight wickets.
Who will the Giants face first in WPL 2026?
The Gujarat Giants will open their campaign against the UP Warriorz in Navi Mumbai on January 10, 2026.
