Gardner ruled out of NZ T20Is, uncapped Knott called in as cover

Tauranga: Ashleigh Gardner has been ruled out for the rest of Australia’s T20I tour of New Zealand due to a finger injury, with uncapped Brisbane Heat and Queensland all-rounder Charli Knott being called up as a replacement.

Gardner left the field immediately after being struck on her right index finger while attempting to catch a powerful return shot from Sophie Devine during the 17th over of Friday’s first T20I in Auckland. She was taken for scans, which revealed a fracture in her right index finger. Gardner will undergo further scans and consult with a specialist upon returning to Sydney.

Serving as vice-captain to Tahlia McGrath on this tour, Gardner’s replacement for Sunday’s second T20I has yet to be confirmed.

Knott, a 22-year-old off-spin bowling all-rounder, has earned her first call-up to the Australia squad following a standout domestic season. In the 2024-25 Women’s National Cricket League, she was the fourth-highest run scorer with 542 runs at an average of 54.2, including her maiden WNCL century - a match-winning 110 against South Australia at Adelaide Oval. IANS

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