Gardner to become first Indigenous player to lead Governor-General’s XI

Callan Morse Published January 12, 2023 at 11.15am (AWST)

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Ash Gardner has been named captain of the Governor-Generals XI. Image: Hanna Lassen/Stringer.

Ash Gardner is set to become the first Indigenous player to captain a Governor-General's cricket team.

The Muruwari champion has been selected as captain of the 12-player honorary side, who will take on Pakistan in a one-off 50 over fixture at Queensland's Allan Border field on Friday.

Inspired by the the annual Prime Minister's XI game, the women's equivalent returns for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic with some of Australia's best young talent set to take the field against the touring Pakistani side.

Gardner said she is excited to lead the young side against Pakistan.

Gardner dominated the recent T20 series against India with both bat and ball, earning herself Player of the Tournament honours. Image: Pankaj Nangia.

"It's an honour to be named captain and I look forward to leading the side against Pakistan; a team that's really started to evolve and show what they're capable of," she said.

"The Governor-General's fixture is always an exciting one with some of Australia's most exciting young talent on show, and this year will be no different."

Although not possessing much captaincy experience at the professional level, Gardner will draw on her previous roles as the then 18-year-old captain of the National Indigenous Women's Team who toured India as well as her vice-captaincy position in the Women's Big Bash League with the Sydney Sixers.

Cricket Australia National Selector Shawn Flegler said the side will be in capable hands with Gardner, who is entering her seventh season of international-level cricket.

"Over the last few years Ash has grown into a strong leader, both on and off the field, so it's pleasing to see her given this opportunity," he said.

"We're always looking for opportunities to develop future leaders and this fixture will give Ash the opportunity to lead a young side, but also one with plenty of international experience, which means she'll be well supported."

The 25-year-old spin bowling allrounder enters the match in fine form after recent performances saw her named Player of the Tournament in Australia's recent tour of India as well as WBBL|08 Player of the Tournament.

She also performed strongly in Australia's gold medal winning Commonwealth Games campaign, which was witnessed first hand by Australian Governor-General, his Excellency General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC.

Gardner was instrumental in the Australian women's cricket team winning gold at the 2022 Commonwealth Games. Image: Ryan Pierse.

"Linda and I were fortunate to be at Edgbaston for the opening match of the Commonwealth Games to witness Ash's commanding 52 not out to guide us to victory," Mr Hurley said.

"It was inspiring and just one of her many fine performances representing Australia.

"Ash is a leader off the field as well and a tremendous example for young people everywhere. We look forward to cheering her and the side on."

The match will act as a warm up to Pakistan's six match tour of Australia, which includes three one-day internationals followed by three T20s.

Gardner is expected to feature prominently in both series ahead of the upcoming Women's T20 World Cup, which begins in South Africa next month.

Governor-General's XI squad to face Pakistan

Able Seaman Charlee Masters Australian Defence Force

Ash Gardner - captain

Erin Burns

Nicole Faltum

Nicola Hancock

Ellie Johnston

Charli Knott