The Gujarat Giants have picked Ashleigh Gardner, an Australian all-rounder, as their new captain for the Women’s Premier League (WPL) in 2025. Gardner takes over from her teammate Beth Mooney, who was the previous captain.
Gardner is a star in Australian cricket, having won the Belinda Clark Award twice. She helped Australia win a gold medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games and was named Player of the Tournament at the 2023 T20 World Cup held in South Africa. Since the WPL started, Gardner has been an important player for the Gujarat Giants, scoring 324 runs and taking 17 wickets over the last two seasons.
“I am truly honored to be named captain of the Gujarat Giants,” Gardner said. “I love being part of this team, and I cannot wait to lead such a talented group this season. We have a great mix of young and experienced players, along with lots of Indian talent. I’m excited to work hard and make our fans proud!”
Michael Klinger, the team’s head coach, believes Gardner will be a great captain. “She is a fierce competitor who knows the game very well. Her ability to inspire others makes her the perfect choice to lead the Giants,” he said. Klinger also thanked Mooney for her leadership and shared that she will now focus on being the wicketkeeper and a key batsman.
Last year, the Gujarat Giants struggled, finishing at the bottom of the league with only two wins in eight matches. They are hoping for a better season with Gardner at the helm.
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