Ash Gardner has flown home from Australia’s Twenty20 tour of New Zealand after suffering a broken finger. During the T20 series opener in Auckland, Gardner attempted to catch a return shot from New Zealand’s Sophie Devine. Unfortunately, she ended up getting hurt as she was bowling. The ball’s impact created a break. She will need to return to Sydney for a detailed medical review and development of on-going rehabilitation and treatment by Cricket Australia.
Injury Details Unfold
Gardner's injury took place as she played a crucial role in Australia's T20 victory against New Zealand. That’s when, while bowling, Sophie Devine thumped the ball right back at Gardner with such ferocity that it caused the break. Despite the setback, Gardner's contribution helped secure a win for the team in the series opener. When she goes back to Sydney, she’ll have additional scans. These will be critical in defining the extent of her injury, as well as developing an overall treatment protocol.
Charli Knott Joins the Squad
In Gardner’s place, Charli Knott has been included in the Australian squad on short notice. Knott, an off-spinning all-rounder from Queensland, is yet to make her Aussie debut in any form. Her inclusion in the team comes after an impressive summer, highlighted by a standout performance in a one-day match at Adelaide Oval. In that final, Knott scored a remarkable 110 runs off just 80 balls and took 2 wickets for 37 runs, winning her the player-of-the-match title.
Knott’s addition has given the Matildas even more fresh talent up front as they head into the group stage matches. Her extraordinary ability with bat and ball has made her an all-round player. Her team knows that her specific talent is their only chance to remain competitive back home in New Zealand.
Australia's Prospects Ahead
With Gardner ruled out, Alana King is expected to replace her in playing XI. All is to play for The Australian team have eyes only on saving the series, with the next match due on Sunday. Australia’s next assignment is a three-match T20 series against New Zealand. This is the chance for their depth and adaptability to really shine, even when missing key pieces like Gardner.
