Australia women’s vice-captain Ashleigh Gardner has spoken publicly about the emotional impact of her marriage breakdown after allegations surrounding her relationship with teammate Georgia Voll were brought into the public domain. Gardner’s former wife, Monica Wright, had criticised Cricket Australia (CA) over what she described as a lack of public action regarding the situation.

Wright told Code Sports that players representing Australia carry significant responsibilities as role models and questioned why CA had not made a public statement on the matter. Gardner subsequently addressed the situation through an Instagram story, acknowledging that while the breakdown of her marriage was a private matter, her position as Australia’s vice-captain meant her relationship status had wider implications.

“While my separation from my wife is a personal matter, I understand my current relationship status needed to be addressed by Cricket Australia given my position as vice-captain,” Ashleigh Gardner wrote.

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The all-rounder also expressed gratitude to the CA Board for continuing to support her leadership role. Gardner said she remained committed to contributing positively to the team and supporting her teammates during the upcoming season.

She also acknowledged the pain caused by the end of her marriage and expressed gratitude for the time she shared with Wright. Ashleigh Gardner wished her former partner happiness and success while making it clear that she did not intend to discuss the matter publicly any further. “I won’t be making any further public comment on this matter at this time and ask that the privacy of those involved

Ash Gardner’s garbage statement after using her position of power to sleep with a younger teammate pic.twitter.com/9EeWrcwURZ

— Julian (@JulianStevens95) August 13, 2026

is respected,” Gardner said.

Cricket Australia chief executive Todd Greenberg has also backed Gardner and reiterated the organisation’s confidence in her leadership. Speaking to SEN during the Australia-Bangladesh men’s Test in Darwin, Greenberg described Gardner as a highly regarded figure within Australian cricket.

Greenberg explained that CA has policies designed to manage potential conflicts of interest involving personal relationships, but additional safeguards would be introduced because of Gardner’s leadership position.

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He stressed that any perceived or actual conflict, particularly around selection decisions, would be managed appropriately. Gardner would not be involved in selection-related matters where a conflict could arise. “Ash is our vice-captain for a reason, because she’s highly regarded,” Greenberg said, adding that CA had been aware of the relationship involving Gardner and Voll for some time.

While the situation has attracted significant public attention, Cricket Australia has maintained its support for Gardner’s leadership. The focus now shifts towards ensuring appropriate safeguards are in place while allowing the vice-captain to continue her role within the Australian women’s team.