Australia vice-captain Gardner glad for cricket's 'escape' after personal turmoil

MELBOURNE: Australia vice-captain Ashleigh Gardner says cricket has provided a welcome escape during a challenging period in her personal ​life, as she thanked teammates for their support ‌following the breakdown of her marriage.

Gardner’s marriage broke down earlier in the year, with her former partner Monica Wright criticising the cricketer for ​her relationship with Australia teammate Georgia Voll on social ​media.

Cricket Australia knew about the relationship before Wright’s comments ⁠and the governing body backed the all-rounder to continue as ​vice-captain despite scrutiny over her leadership position.

Speaking at the Sydney ​Sixers’ season launch in Sydney on Monday, Gardner acknowledged the toll of a difficult period for her personally but said her cricket commitments had ​helped her maintain perspective.

“Challenging, but cricket has been a fantastic ​escape,” she told reporters.

“Being able to win the World Cup and have ‌success ⁠in The Hundred campaign as well was great.

“I have had some fantastic people around me to be there when I’ve needed them, and cricket has been great because I know the ​people around me ​support me. ⁠They know the type of person I am.”

Sixers captain Gardner apologised in August in a ​statement for the pain caused by her marriage ​breakdown and ⁠thanked Cricket Australia for backing her leadership.

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The Sixers also stood by Gardner, announcing in July she would remain captain for the ⁠Women’s ​Big Bash League season.

“Obviously this club ​means a lot to me (and) to have the backing from the people at ​the top,” she said.