Australia vice-captain Ashleigh Gardner has described cricket as a source of stability during a difficult period in her personal life, thanking her teammates and support network following the breakdown of her marriage.
The 29-year-old all-rounder spoke publicly about the situation in North Sydney on Monday, ahead of the Sydney Sixers’ opening Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) match against Brisbane Heat on Friday.
Gardner acknowledged the challenges of dealing with private matters under public scrutiny but said her international and franchise cricket commitments had helped her maintain focus.
“Cricket’s been a really fantastic escape … It’s been a bit of a shining light,” Gardner said.
Gardner Addresses Personal Challenges and Teammate Support
Gardner’s estranged wife, Monica Wright, alleged in a July Instagram post that the Australian cricketer had an affair with teammate Georgia Voll.
Gardner and Voll are now in a relationship.
In August, Gardner issued a statement apologising for the pain caused by the breakdown of her marriage. She also thanked Cricket Australia for continuing to support her leadership role.
Speaking ahead of the WBBL season, Gardner acknowledged that the situation had been difficult to navigate.
“It’s obviously been challenging,” she said. “Yes, it’s my private life, but I guess these things become more of a public matter.”
The Australian vice-captain credited those closest to her, particularly her fellow cricketers, for providing support.
“I’ve had some fantastic people around me to be there when I’ve needed them. I think cricket’s been great for that because I know the people around me support me. They know the type of person I am.”
Gardner Enjoys Successful Run With Australia and Trent Rockets
Despite the challenges away from the field, Gardner has enjoyed an impressive period in international and franchise cricket. Since July, she has helped Australia win another Women’s T20 World Cup and captained Trent Rockets to victory in England’s Hundred competition.
She also delivered strong performances in Australia’s limited-overs matches against Bangladesh and New Zealand.
In a recent T20I against New Zealand, Gardner scored 84 from 45 balls and claimed 2/17, earning the Player of the Match award as Australia secured victory.
Gardner said her responsibilities as a teammate and captain had helped her concentrate on cricket.
“I’m always trying to be the best teammate I can be in whatever team I represent,” she explained.
“Being able to captain a couple of sides throughout that period certainly draws me back to focusing on other people as well.”
She added that representing her teams remained a priority regardless of what was happening in her personal life.
“Obviously, there’s stuff going on in my life, but I think being able to show up for my teammates and for the clubs I represent is the most important thing I can do. Hopefully my performances showcase that.”
Cricket Provides Stability During Difficult Period
Gardner admitted that maintaining her concentration had not always been easy.
“There were certainly days that it was tough,” she said.
However, the demands of professional cricket provided a routine and a sense of purpose.
“That (playing cricket) is my job at the end of the day. Life still happens (and it is about) being able to put my full focus into whatever was needed from me, and that’s obviously cricket.”
She also emphasised the importance of the friendships she has developed throughout her career.
“(It was a matter of) being able to focus on having really good relationships with my teammates as well, because they’re ultimately going to be there to see the good days, to see the bad (ones).”
“I’ve made some fantastic friends throughout my career and certainly being able to rely on them at times (has helped me).”
Gardner has retained her position as Australia’s vice-captain and will continue leading the Sydney Sixers in the upcoming WBBL campaign.
Sydney Sixers Prepare for WBBL 2026 Season Opener
Gardner will return to domestic action when the Sydney Sixers face Brisbane Heat on Friday. The new WBBL season begins on Thursday with a double-header at Junction Oval in Melbourne.
Melbourne Renegades will face Sydney Thunder in the opening fixture, followed by Melbourne Stars against defending champions Hobart Hurricanes. The Sixers will look to make a strong start under Gardner’s leadership as she carries her recent international form into the tournament.
For the Australian all-rounder, the return to franchise cricket offers another opportunity to focus on her performances and responsibilities as captain.
After a demanding few months, Gardner remains determined to contribute to her teams while drawing strength from the people around her.
