Australian cricket sensation Ash Gardner made headlines during the women’s ODI World Cup with a remarkable performance in the second match, achieving a swift century. She reached her hundred in just 77 balls, showcasing her talent with a stunning boundary that commentators praised for its elegance.
Mel Jones, a commentator for Amazon Prime, highlighted Gardner’s achievement, noting it was her first century in a World Cup and emphasising her significant role in lifting Australia from a precarious position after early wickets fell. Coming in to bat with the team struggling at 113 for four, Gardner’s innings became crucial as she continued to build partnerships even as wickets tumbled around her. At one point, Australia found themselves reeling at 239 for seven.
During her innings, Gardner shared a vital 69-run partnership with Kim Garth, which played a key role in stabilising the Australian innings. Former Australian captain Aaron Finch commended her after she reached her ton, calling it a necessary knock from a star player in a World Cup context.
Gardner ultimately scored 115 runs, marking not only her second ODI century but also setting a record as the first player to score a century batting at No.6 or lower in a women’s ODI World Cup. Australia ended their innings at 326 runs, with Garth contributing 38 runs as the last wicket to fall. Phoebe Litchfield also made a notable contribution, scoring 45 runs at the top of the order.
On the bowling front for New Zealand, Lea Tahuhu stood out with figures of 3 for 42 in eight overs. The New Zealand chase began disastrously, losing two wickets without a run on the board. George Plimmer was unfortunately run out on her very first ball, while her opening partner Suzie Bates quickly followed her back to the pavilion after a nine-ball duck, bowled by Sophie Molineux.
Overall, Gardner’s historic innings not only bolstered Australia’s total but also underscored her rising stature in women’s cricket, making it a day to remember for both her and her team.