Women's Premier League 2025: Australian all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner has been appointed the new captain of the Gujarat Giants for the Women's Premier League (WPL), beginning later this month (February). The 27-year-old takes over from fellow Australian Beth Mooney, who will now focus mainly on her batting.

The third season of the Women's Premier League is starting on February 14, with Gujarat Giants facing Royal Challengers Bangalore in the opening match. The Giants have struggled in the league so far, finishing last in both previous seasons since the WPL started in 2023.

Gardner, a top player for Australia, made her international entry  in 2017. She has played about 95 T20Is, scoring more than  1400 runs and taking 78 wickets with her off-spin bowling. She has  also won the prestigious Belinda Clark Award and played a crucial role in Australia’s gold medal win at the 2022 Common-wealth Games. She was also named 'Player of the Tournament' at the T20 World Cup in South Africa in 2023.

Since joining the Gujarat Giants, Gardner has scored 324 runs and taken 17 wickets. Speaking about her new role, Gardner said, "It is an absolute honour to be named the captain of Gujarat Giants. I have loved being part of this team, and I am excited to lead this fantastic group in the upcoming season. We have a great mix of young and experienced players, along with plenty of Indian talent. I am looking forward to working together and making our fans proud." she added.

Gujarat Giants head coach Michael Klinger praised Gardner’s leadership qualities. "She is a fierce competitor with great game awareness and skills. Her ability to inspire teammates makes her the perfect choice to lead the Giants. We believe she will guide the team to a successful season," Klinger said. He also thanked Beth Mooney for her previous leadership and expressed confidence in her continued contributions as a wicketkeeper and opening batter.

Sanjay Adesara, Chief Business Officer of Adani Sportsline, which owns the franchise, expressed hopes about the team’s future under Gardner’s leadership. "Ashleigh represents the spirit of Gujarat Giants with her skills, dedication and leadership. Her appointment as captain reflects our commitment to building a world-class team. We are sure that under her captaincy, the team will fetch a stellar performance in the Women's Premier League," he said.