Ashleigh Gardner has signed a contract extension with the Sydney Sixers for a further two seasons. The decision comes ahead of the upcoming Weber WBBL|11 season, and she is now set to remain with the Sixers until WBBL|13. Gardner joins fellow Australian star Ellyse Perry, who also extended her contract for another three years back in June.
Gardner will continue to be a key player in the squad. However, the Sixers will now be under new leadership, with Matthew Mott replacing Charlotte Edwards as head coach. Edwards currently serves as the head coach of the England Women’s team.
The Australian all-rounder has had a significant impact in the WBBL over the years. She has scored 2,607 runs and claimed 102 wickets in 135 matches so far.
Speaking on Gardner’s contract extension, Sixers general manager Rachael Haynes expressed her excitement about the news.
“Ash is an incredibly important player in our side, and it’s essential for us to continue looking ahead and securing our players long-term to ensure our list is in the best possible position for the future,” she said.
Haynes also praised Gardner’s long-standing association with the Sixers and highlighted her development over the years.
“Ash has been a part of our club’s history for over a decade. We’ve watched her grow as a player and a person over the last ten years, and it’s been fantastic to see her become one of the very best in the world,” she added.
Looking ahead to the new season, Haynes said the team is in a strong place.
“We’re looking forward to an extremely exciting season of WBBL. We have a new head coach and plenty of exciting youth in our group, and now heading into the season with another piece of our core secured is really exciting for our fans and members,” Haynes further said.
Sydney Sixers WBBL|11 squad so far
Caoimhe Bray, Maitlan Brown, Lauren Cheatle, Sophia Dunkley, Ashleigh Gardner, Alyssa Healy, Elsa Hunter, Amelia Kerr, Ellyse Perry, Courtney Sippel, Mady Villiers.
In: Elsa Hunter, Sophia Dunkley, Mady Villiers Out: Sophie Ecclestone (Strikers), Hollie Armitage
Off contract: Erin Burns, Mathilda Carmichael, Isabella Malgioglio, Kate Pelle, Kate Peterson, Sarah Bryce (Scotland/associate rookie)
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