New Delhi, October 26, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Australia vice-captain Ashleigh Gardner has described the breakdown of her marriage as a “challenging” period in her life, saying cricket has been a source of comfort and stability amid the public scrutiny surrounding her personal affairs.
Gardner’s estranged wife, Monica Wright, had alleged in July this year that the Australian all-rounder had an affair with teammate Georgia Voll. Gardner is now in a relationship with Voll.
The Sydney Sixers captain spoke publicly about the difficult period for the first time ahead of the upcoming Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL), which begins on Thursday. The Sixers are scheduled to face Brisbane Heat on Friday.
“Cricket’s been a really fantastic escape … it’s been a bit of a shining light,” Gardner said at the franchise’s season launch on Monday, as quoted by The Sydney Morning Herald.
“It’s obviously been challenging. Yes, it’s my private life, but I guess these things become more of a public matter,” she added.
The allegations emerged after Australia won the T20 World Cup earlier this year and ahead of Gardner’s stint as captain of Trent Rockets in the Women’s Hundred the following month. She subsequently led the Rockets to the title.
Reflecting on her achievements during the period, Gardner said winning the World Cup and enjoying success in the Hundred had been significant, while acknowledging the support she received from people around her.
“Being able to win the World Cup and have success in the Hundred campaign as well (was great). 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,” she said.
Gardner added that her teammates understood her character and her commitment to the teams she represented.
“They know the type of person I am. I’m always trying to be the best teammate I can be in whatever team I represent. Being able to captain a couple of sides throughout that period as well certainly draws me back to focusing on other people as well,” she said.
“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,” she added.
The 29-year-old said she had tried to separate the controversy surrounding her personal life from her professional responsibilities, although there were times when the situation proved difficult.
“There were certainly days that it was tough,” she said, adding that she had to remain focused on her responsibilities as a cricketer.
Gardner said maintaining strong relationships with teammates had been particularly important because they had supported her through both difficult and successful moments.
She also spoke about the importance of relying on friends and colleagues, describing the support she received during her career as invaluable.
“When you’ve got a platform, you have a platform. Cricket has been one of those things that has brought me back to why I’m here,” she said.
Reflecting on the lessons she had drawn from the experience, Gardner acknowledged the responsibilities that come with being a high-profile Australian athlete and a role model.
“Being a role model, people look up to you and whether that’s your reputation and things like that. There are so many things to take out of what’s happened,” she said.
Gardner added that learning to rely on others had been an important takeaway from the experience, noting that people do not always recognise how much support they need until they face difficult circumstances.
She also thanked the Sydney Sixers for standing by her during the challenging period and praised the club’s general manager, Rachael Haynes, for her support.
“Obviously this club means a lot to me. To have the backing from the people at the top (means a lot). I’ve known Rach for a really long time. I got to play with her and then obviously got to see her transition into the GM of the club I love,” Gardner said.
FOLLOW NOW
