Ashleigh Gardner says reputation has been tarnished by personal crisis
The Australia vice-captain spoke about public scrutiny after a separation became widely reported.
Ashleigh Gardner says her reputation has taken a hit since the public learned about her separation. The 29-year-old vice-captain is still in her role with the national side. She released her first public statement in August and spoke at length to The Australian on 6 October.
Gardner noted that athletes face questions about more than just their game. Her teammates, she said, still see her as a good person who made mistakes. Australia Women open a three-match ODI series against Bangladesh in Brisbane on 11 October.
CricHubb Take
Gardner’s case shows how quickly a player’s private life can become a public referendum on their fitness to lead — and how little time teams have to decide whether that referendum should matter.