Ashleigh Gardner set to become first indigenous woman to play for Australia in 60 years

ASHLEIGH Gardner is likely to become the first indigenous woman to play cricket for Australia in 60 years, but she’s determined to make an impression in more ways than one.

Ashleigh Gardner is set to make her Australian national debut against New Zealand. Picture: Mark Wilson

BIG hitting all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner’s likely debut at the MCG will create history, but she’s determined to also make an impression.

The 19-year-old, if picked to face New Zealand, will become the first indigenous woman to play cricket for Australia in almost 60 years.

Gardner’s rise in the game peaked in this summer’s Women’s Big Bash League where she scored 414 runs in 16 matches, including three half-centuries, as well as taking 10 wickets for the all-conquering Sydney Sixers.

If given a chance on Friday or in one of the other two T20s in Australia or three one-day games against the Silver Ferns to follow in New Zealand, Gardner hopes to prove how valuable she can be ahead of June’s World Cup.

“I’d obviously like to (secure) a place in this team,” Gardner said.

Cricketer Ashleigh Gardner is set to make her Australian national debut this week, she is pictured at Southbank Picture: Mark Wilson

“If I do get to debut and hopefully I do put a good performance on the board I can try and cement my spot in this team.

WORLD CUP: Stars to blood new talent

“Going into the World Cup later on in the year it’s a very important thing for us to get one up on the New Zealanders.

“…It’s still a bit of a shock that I am here, but I’m not taking it for granted.”

Gardner has had great support from injured all rounder Ellyse Perry, the captain of the Sydney Sixers.

With Perry set to miss the T20 series because of a hamstring injury, Gardner could fill her void in the batting order.

“I’ve become really good friends with Pez, she’s always trying to help on and off the field,” Gardner said.

Gardner swings from the hips for the Sixers.

“It’s pretty awesome to think I could be bating where she’s batting.

“It’s pretty awesome knowing I’m in the side and she will also be (back) in the side for the 50 overs stuff.”

Gardner said becoming the first indigenous women to play for Australia since Faith Thomas in 1958 was a huge honour.

“Being the second player after Faith Thomas, that’s pretty special in itself,” she said.

“She was an awesome person on and off the field.

“I love my culture ... hopefully I am seen as a role model within indigenous communities.”

Originally published as Ashleigh Gardner set to become first indigenous woman to play for Australia in 60 years