Ash Gardner has spoken publicly about the cheating allegations surrounding her private life, describing cricket as a “shining light” during what she acknowledged had been a challenging period.
The Sydney Sixers captain addressed the controversy at the club’s season launch in North Sydney on Monday, ahead of the Women’s Big Bash League campaign beginning against Brisbane Heat on Friday.
In July, Gardner’s estranged wife, Monica Wright, alleged in an Instagram post that the Australian all-rounder had been involved in an affair with fellow Australia player Georgia Voll. Gardner and Voll are now in a relationship.
Gardner said her performances on the field had provided an escape from the scrutiny, with Australia winning the T20 World Cup and Gardner captaining Trent Rockets to victory in England’s Hundred competition. She has also played in Australia’s recent white-ball matches against Bangladesh and New Zealand.
“Cricket’s been a really fantastic escape … it’s been a bit of a shining light,” Gardner said. “It’s obviously been challenging.”
“Yes, it’s my private life, but I guess these things become more of a public matter.”
The 29-year-old said she had been helped by the people around her and had tried to remain focused on supporting her teammates while continuing to lead the teams she represented.
“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,” she said. “Hopefully, my performances showcase that.”
Gardner said there had been difficult days, but that maintaining strong relationships with her teammates had helped her manage the pressure.
“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.
She also acknowledged the responsibilities that came with being a prominent Australian cricketer and a role model, saying the episode had reinforced the importance of relying on others for support.
Gardner has retained her position as Australia’s vice-captain. Cricket Australia chief executive Todd Greenberg said “additional policies” would be introduced to navigate her relationship with Voll.
The Sixers also confirmed in July that Gardner would remain as captain for the new WBBL season. She paid tribute to outgoing general manager Rachael Haynes, her former Australia and Sixers teammate, for backing her during the controversy.
“Obviously this club means a lot to me,” Gardner said. “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.”
