Ashleigh Gardner's 84 helps Australia retain Rose Bowl
Gardner's all-round display secured Australia's series-clinching win and retained the Rose Bowl trophy.
Ashleigh Gardner scored 84 from 45 balls to lead Australia to 167 for seven and a 40-run victory over New Zealand in the second T20I at North Sydney Oval on Tuesday. Gardner hit ten fours and four sixes after coming in at 41 for three, and later took two wickets as New Zealand were restricted to 127 for eight.
Georgia Wareham claimed three for 18 from four overs while Gardner took two for 17 from three. New Zealand captain Melie Kerr top-scored with 32 from 38 balls, but the visitors never mounted a serious challenge after losing early wickets.
Australia lead the three-match series 2-0 with the final game scheduled for Thursday at the same venue. Gardner said the innings gave her confidence ahead of a busy summer that includes the Women's Premier League and T20 Champions Trophy.
CricHubb Take
Gardner's ability to pace an innings from number five and then contribute with the ball makes her the fulcrum of Australia's T20I balance heading into a compressed international calendar.