In a significant move ahead of the upcoming season, the Gujarat Giants have confirmed Australian all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner will continue to lead the franchise as captain for the 2026 Women's Premier League (WPL). The announcement, made on Monday, December 30, 2025, solidifies the leadership structure for the team following a playoff finish in the previous edition.
Continuity in Leadership and Retention Strategy
The decision to reappoint Gardner comes as no surprise, given her role in steering the team to the playoffs in the 2025 season after two initially disappointing campaigns. This move underscores a strategy of continuity for the Giants. Gardner was one of only two players retained by the franchise ahead of the mega auction held in November 2025, the other being star wicketkeeper-batter Beth Mooney.
The franchise officially shared the news on social media platform X, stating, "Experience in her stride. Belief in her voice. Ash Gardner steps up once more as our CAPTAIN, primed to take us to glory." This public endorsement highlights the management's faith in her ability to guide the team to its maiden title.
Gardner's Stellar Track Record with the Giants
Ash Gardner has been a cornerstone of the Gujarat Giants since the league's inception. Over the first three seasons of the WPL, her all-round contributions have been immense. In 25 matches for the franchise, she has amassed 567 runs at an impressive strike rate of 141.75, including five half-centuries. With the ball, she has been equally effective, claiming 25 wickets at an economy rate of 8.34.
Her leadership in the 2025 season was pivotal in transforming the team's fortunes, taking them to the Eliminator match in the playoffs. This performance has built a strong foundation for the squad as they look ahead to the 2026 challenge.
A Formidable Squad Eyeing the Championship
Captain Gardner will helm a powerful squad brimming with international talent for WPL 2026. The team boasts a strong Australian contingent featuring Kim Garth and Georgia Wareham. They are complemented by other established global stars like New Zealand's Sophie Devine and England's Danielle Wyatt-Hodge.
The collective goal for this ensemble is clear: to clinch the championship trophy that has eluded them so far. Their campaign for the new season is set to begin on January 10, with a high-voltage opening clash against the UP Warriorz in Navi Mumbai.
World Cup on the Horizon: Gardner's Dual Focus
The 2026 WPL season carries added significance as it serves as a crucial preparatory ground for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup scheduled in England a few months later. Gardner recently reflected on Australia's recent performances in global tournaments, acknowledging past frustrations while reaffirming her team's top status.
"The last couple of World Cups have been frustrating because of the way that they’ve ended. But I can sit here comfortably and say that I still believe that we’re the best team," Gardner told AAP. She emphasized the importance of peaking at the right moment, adding, "It’s just making sure that we’re showing that in those moments where it really matters... I’m certainly thinking about June next year."
This dual focus on immediate franchise success and long-term national team ambitions sets the stage for an intensely competitive and thrilling WPL season, with Gardner at the heart of the action for the Gujarat Giants.
