Ashleigh Gardner has been ruled out of the remainder of the T20I series against New Zealand after scans confirmed a fracture in her right index finger.
Cricket Australia stated on Saturday that she would undergo further scans and seek specialist advice upon returning to Sydney.
In Gardner’s absence, Ellyse Perry will take over as vice-captain alongside skipper Tahlia McGrath. Meanwhile, 22-year-old uncapped batting allrounder Charli Knott from Queensland has been called up as her replacement for the final two matches of the series. The second game is scheduled for Sunday, with the series finale on Wednesday.
Australia currently lead the series 1-0 after a dominant eight-wicket win in the opening match in Auckland on Friday. Chasing 138 for victory, they secured the win with 39 balls to spare. Gardner contributed with the ball, bowling just 2.2 overs before suffering the injury.
The incident occurred during the 17th over of New Zealand’s innings when Gardner bowled a flighted delivery to Sophie Devine. Advancing down the track, Devine struck the ball powerfully back at Gardner, who attempted to catch it but spilled it. Both her hands made contact with the ball, but she immediately showed signs of discomfort. The team physio rushed onto the field, and Gardner left shortly afterward.
After New Zealand’s innings, it was confirmed that Gardner had been taken for scans and would not bat in Australia’s chase. However, her absence wasn’t felt, as Beth Mooney (75* off 42) and Georgia Voll (50 off 31) comfortably guided Australia to victory.
