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In the second One-Day International (ODI) between Ireland and Australia, all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner showcased her batting prowess, scoring a blazing 65 off 39 balls, including three sixes. While her innings was a significant contribution to Australia’s total of 321/7, Gardner couldn’t shake off the disappointment of getting out with seven overs still remaining.
After receiving the Peden-Archdale medal for her exceptional performance with the ball during the multi-format Ashes series, where she took 23 wickets, the 25-year-old was determined to leave her mark with the bat.
Reflecting on her performance, Gardner acknowledged her frustration over the poor shot selection that led to her dismissal. She admitted leaving a few runs on the table but emphasized that her fearless style of play is aimed at taking the game forward.
“I left quite a few runs out there which is disappointing, but I guess that’s cricket and the brand of cricket that I play is I’m trying to take the game on and I’m trying to move the game forward,” said Gardner as quoted by cricket.com.au.
“So I have to live with it but in hindsight, I wish I didn’t play that type of shot to get out, because I certainly got myself out and it was mine for the taking to score as many runs as I could and build a really good partnership with Annabel (Sutherland). So, quite frustrating, but we get the win and that’s all that matters,” she added.
Gardner explains the impact of Ellyse Perry
Gardner spoke highly of the influence of teammate Ellyse Perry, who anchored Australia’s innings with a brilliant 91 runs. The two players shared a crucial 54-run partnership, with Perry providing valuable guidance to Gardner during her innings.
“I knew that I had to be patient out there and (Ireland) probably tested my patience a little bit, but batting with someone like Pez who had been out there for a little while, she was just talking me through it, knowing that I could get frustrated,” Gardner explained.
“Because they do bowl a little bit slower, they bowl differently to what we’re used to. Unfortunately, I don’t learn from my lessons and I was impatient and played a shot that wasn’t there. But it was nice to spend some time out in the middle and put some runs on the board,” the Bankstown-born stated.
Gardner’s patience and fearless style drive Australia’s dominance in 2nd WODI
The all-rounder recognized the challenge posed by Ireland’s bowling, as they offered a different style compared to what she was accustomed to facing. Despite the frustration of getting out, Gardner was pleased with the opportunity to spend time in the middle and contribute with the bat.
Apart from her batting exploits, Gardner showcased her off-spin skills, maintaining an impressive economy rate of 3.5 from her six overs and securing the crucial wicket of opener Gaby Lewis.
Australia’s improved performance against Ireland came after losing the ODI leg of the Ashes series 2-1. Posting a commanding total of 321/7, Australia went on to bowl out Ireland for 168, sealing a comprehensive victory.
